Circular time in the novel Instinto de Inez by Carlos Fuentes

Abstract

This paper questions the concept of the time in the novel Instinto de Inez by Mexican writer Carlos Fuentes. We analyze one of this writer’s techniques called temporal superposition, which creates chronological indetermination and whose theme is reincarnation, in order to create the sensation of the time stopping. This technique can consist of the simultaneous presentation of different historic moments, that is to say, the historic and the prehistoric ones in this case. We also discuss the semantic characteristics of the use of tense in the novel, especially the use of formula “tú” (you) with the future tense. This paper explores how circular time is used in this novel as a narrative technique to deny the optimistic idea of progress and to give an account of reality in which just the apparent can be changed while the essence stays immutable. This paper explores on the problems of time, history, memory, destiny and death.