“The woman who rode away”:  A Transitivity reading that matches the Sufi understanding of the circles of the inner self’s journey in time and space                                                             

    Cyrine Kortas

     Abstract

D.H. Lawrence's "The Woman Who Rode Away" is a tale deeply rooted in a specific temporal and spatial context. The SFL analysis of the short story aims to underscore the significance of time and place in shaping the protagonist's journey. Through a careful examination of transitivity patterns and the narrative's spatial and temporal contexts, the study reveals a rich tapestry of meaning that transcends simplistic readings. Using the framework of Systemic Functional Grammar and the UAM CorpusTool, the study shows that mental processes are dominant over other verb choices, which entails that the journey is not a classical Western voyage. This choice reflects the protagonist's inner journey and emotional landscape, as she grapples with her identity and aspirations. Lawrence’s spiritual and mystical style deeply marks the woman’s travel, echoing a Sufi experience of ascendance. Hence, the narrative invites readers to explore the boundaries between the ordinary and the mystical, ultimately portraying a woman's quest for self-discovery and liberation in a world constrained by societal norms. This exploration not only enhances our understanding of the text but also contributes to broader discussions on gender, identity, and the transformative power of experience within literary studies.