THE LITERARY POWER OF TENSES IN THE MODERN ERA

Abstract

This paper scrutinizes the critical problems related to the use of tenses in English literature in the modern framework. It discusses the shortcomings of inept manipulation of tenses in literary pieces, leading to narrative incoherence, distorted temporal perspectives, and misunderstanding. Further, it emphasizes the need for robust understanding and meticulous editing of tenses to rectify these issues and uphold the integrity of contemporary literary works. The complexity of modern narratives necessitates an even more competent use of tenses. However, issues arise when tenses are mishandled, leading to disturbances in the timeline, perplexing grammatical structures, or fragmented character development. This problem is magnified when modernistic and post-modernistic authors experiment with non-linear narratives, shifting perspectives, and complex thematic elements, making the role of tenses challenging yet crucial. The ramification of careless tense manipulation is it inflicts confusion, diminishes the quality of the narrative, and frustrates the reader's engagement with the text. It disrupts the story's flow and blurs the connection between the plot and its temporal structure. Consequently, it is imperative to identify and address these problems to enhance the clarity and coherence of modern literary pieces. In the face of modern literary challenges, the role of editing, with a particular focus on tenses, is indispensable. Editors should vigilantly identify tense-related issues and rectify them to restore the narrative's clarity and integrity. Comprehending the contemporary narrative techniques and the subtleties of tenses is paramount for editors to extract the intended essence from the author's words and facilitate clear and enjoyable reading for the audience. The portrayal of problems related to tenses in English literature in the modern context signifies a serious dilemma that needs addressing. It is an issue affecting the comprehensive understanding and enjoyment of readers. Authors and editors need to work in tandem to tackle these problems adeptly and ensure high literary standards. Consequently, showcasing the gravity of this issue is essential to cultivating an informed literary ecosystem that strives for excellence and reader satisfaction in English literature.