JNT: Journal of Narrative Theory is a refereed, international journal focused on the subject of narrative.
Introduction
JNT 54.3 Featured Author: Diletta Cenni
JNT 54.3 Featured Author: Diletta Cenni
Tell us a bit about the essay you wrote for JNT:
My essay explores the fascinating and often overlooked role of dedications in children’s literature. Drawing on Gérard Genette’s theory of paratexts, I examine how authors like Lewis Carroll, J.M. Barrie, and C.S. Lewis used dedications as more than formal acknowledgments—they became creative extensions of the stories themselves. These dedications blur the lines between personal relationships and literary creation, functioning as intimate messages to their child dedicatees while also inviting readers into the worlds these authors built. Through them, it is possible to gain unique insights into the creative process and the special bond between the authors and the children who inspired their timeless classics.
What inspired you to research this topic?
The idea for this work originated several years ago while I was studying at the University of Berkeley. I was taking a course on children’s literature and, as I engaged with the material, I noticed how many characters in classic children’s stories were inspired by real children the authors had known. I found myself deeply intrigued by the relationship between these authors and their young muses, as well as the process through which real-life individuals were transformed into fictional characters. The dedication struck me as a fascinating lens through which to explore this dynamic and analyze how personal relationships shape literary creation. Those early reflections became the foundation for my thesis, and after years of further thought and reworking, they evolved into the essay I’ve written for JNT.
What was the most exciting thing about this project for you?
The most exciting part of this project was uncovering the deeply personal and often hidden narratives embedded in these dedications. It felt like solving a literary puzzle—tracing the connections between the authors and the children who inspired their stories, and seeing how those relationships shaped both the characters and the worlds they created. Each dedication offers a unique glimpse into the creative process, blending memory, imagination, and personal history in such a poignant way. It was particularly thrilling to explore how something as brief and seemingly simple as a dedication could open up new ways of understanding the classics.
What’s next for you?
Recently, I’ve expanded my research into media studies, particularly focusing on how narrative frameworks translate into modern formats like podcasts. I believe Genette’s ideas about paratexts still have a lot to offer in this space, and I’ve started exploring how podcasts create meaning through elements like descriptions, opening sequences, and even the tone of the host’s voice. I plan to continue this line of research with several upcoming essays, which will explore how the tools of literary studies can provide fresh insights into today’s digital storytelling practices.