Reiterative construction of narrative: A storytelling device from Javanese conversation

Abstract

Using Ochs & Capp’s (2001) ve dimensions of narrative, I analyse small stories that emerge during informal conversation among Javanese speakers. Of particu- lar interest are the dimensions of Linearity, Tellership and Moral Stance. While many of these narratives are organised in chronological order, nearly half emerge from their conversational context non-chronologically. e primary organising strategy found among the non-chronological narratives is repetition combined with elaboration. I call this pattern of narrative organisation reiterative storytell- ing. While reiterative storytelling may not be unique to Javanese, it is pervasive and particularly characteristic of Javanese interaction..