The Trope of Fantasy in Salman Rushdie's Haroun and the Sea of Stories

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This study aims to explore how fantasy probes the embedded meanings of creativity and communication. It also seeks to reiterate the role of fantasy and imagination in confronting contemporary issues in real life. Methodology: This study uses an interpretative approach using J.R.R Tolkien's theory of fantasy to analyze the text as an allegory. Through close reading and textual analysis, the text is analysed, relating the events to a personal and political context, which it allegorizes. Online scholarly materials on fantasy and storytelling, collected from various digital sources and libraries were explored to assist in analyzing the role of fantasy in dealing with the contemporary issues in the real world. Main Findings: The study has found that the power of imagination has brought fantasy into existence and fantasy is analyzed as a tool to resist the contemporary issues regarding the freedom of thought and speech in the real life. The study has also found that storytelling brings a union in the community to build an egalitarian society. Applications of the study: This study can be helpful in children’s literature, to prepare the children for their adulthood by equipping them with problem-solving skills and creative skills by empowering their power of imagination. It can also facilitate the children to empower be aware of their the sense of right to information and expression in their life. Novelty/Originality of the study: The study proves the text as fantasy fiction, not just for fun with the supernatural features, but has embedded messages in the symbols and metaphors, revealed through the storytelling technique. Fantasy and creativity draw a link between the imaginary world and the real world as it is an outlet for repressed desires and also a tool to resist the contemporary issues of real-life through creativity.