You Are Here: Narrative Construction of Identity and Community Resilience in Newfoundland during and after 9/11

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study seeks to expand the use of quantum storytelling lens in qualitative research. Guided by this approach, we analyzed interviews with 32 individuals connected with the events of 9/11 in Newfoundland in three groups examining long-term narrative construction of resilience after a disrupting event and the idea that communication and construction of a resilience narrative can function as a larger community identity. This analysis revealed that participants not only use these narratives to shape their current lives but to narrate themselves and the community as resilient and generous. The findings also suggested theoretical implications that suggest we can broaden the definitions of both community and resilience and that these two are narratively constructed.