Intertextuality and Narrative Transformation in Dhaabaa Wayyeessaa's Godaannisa: A Poststructuralist Analysis of Literary Rivision

Abstract

This study explores how Dhaabaa Wayyeessaa’s novel Godaannisaemploys intertextuality and literary revision to deepen its thematic resonance and narrative complexity. Addressing a critical gap in Oromoo literary studies—where intertextuality and revision have received limited scholarly attention—the studyemploys a qualitative, poststructuralist,text-based methodology to analyze the 2020 revised edition of the novel.The analysis reveals that Dhaabaa extensively utilizes intertextual references to reimagine the original narrative, transforming it into a more sophisticated and multi-layered work. The revised edition integrates diverse forms of intertextuality—musical, literary, historical, and philosophical—bringing the novel’s central themes of identity, resistance, and redemption to the forefront. By weaving personal and collective experiences within broader cultural and political contexts, the revision expands the novel’s narrative scope and thematic depth.Stylistically, the intertextual elements enrich the emotional and intellectual dimensions of the story. Notably, the integration of music andliterature intensifies the emotional impact of the narrative, creating a dynamic interplay between moments of introspection and action. These intertextual dialogues also illuminate the protagonist’s internal conflicts, enhancing the narrative’s reflectiveand politically resonant qualities.Ultimately, the 2020 edition of Godaannisaredefines the boundaries of Oromoo storytelling, offering a compelling case for the transformative potential of literary revision and intertextual engagement. This study underscores the significance of literary revision as a critical practice in Oromooliterature, providing insights into how narrative reimagining can enrich both thematic exploration and artistic resonance.