With the stress of final exam week hanging over the campus. That day, I went to the library as usual to do my final revision for the economics exam the next day.

I found my usual seat, placed my laptop, textbook, notes and water glass on the table, and then went to the shelf to find a key reference book. When I came back with the book in my arms, I found a strange classmate sitting on the seat. I went to remind him, but when he came, there was only a glass of water on the table. Then I realized that my computer and my files were gone.

Around the students cast strange eyes, I am anxious and angry, and quickly find the library administrator for help. The administrator said it would take time to review the surveillance, so I was asked to wait. In the process of waiting, I anxiously paced in the library, my eyes did not let go of any corner, but still nothing.

After a while, the administrator regretfully told me that the surveillance camera only caught someone taking something, but could not see the face and direction. I had no choice but to go back to the dormitory in disgrace. Just entered the door, I was dumbstruck, roommates are using the same laptop as me, a closer look, even the small stickers above are the same, that is clearly mine!

I questioned my roommate, he quickly explained, said to go to the library to find me, look at the table, no one wants to take it back to the dormitory to contact me, the result was busy forgot. I was angry and amused to learn it was a misunderstanding. I rushed back to the library with my things, explained the situation to the librarian and apologized. This experience has taught me a lesson, and when I take a seat in the future, I will definitely make clear marks to avoid similar mistakes from happening again.

Reflection

In  course explores narrative in depth and distinguishes “narrative” from “story” from the perspective of narratology (Kim et al., 2017). We learned about the traditional narrative structure common in audio stories, as well as the innovative narrative forms developed by podcasts. We also learned the difference between linear and non-linear narratives, as well as some non-traditional narrative structures.

The library incident lends itself to multiple narrative approaches. A linear retelling would follow the timeline: settling at the desk, discovering the theft, seeking help, and resolving the misunderstanding. This straightforward structure ensures clarity. Alternatively, a non-linear version might begin with the confrontation with my roommate, flashing back to the theft and search, then returning to the resolution. This approach builds suspense, mirroring my confusion during the ordeal.

In a group project, I experimented with linear narration to mirror the event’s natural progression. Sound elements like the librarian’s calm voice juxtaposed with my hurried footsteps reinforced the timeline. However, a peer’s non-linear sketch—using fragmented audio clips of the roommate’s explanation intercut with library chaos—demonstrated how structure influences tension. This aligns with Kim et al.’s (2017) emphasis on narrative flexibility. Moving forward, I aim to experiment with hybrid structures, balancing clarity and creativity to better engage listeners.