Processing Narrative Coherence: Towards a Top-Down Model of Discourse

Abstract

Models of discourse and narration elaborated within the classical
compositional framework have been characterized as bottom-up models,
according to which discourse analysis proceeds incrementally, from
phrase and sentence local meaning to discourse global meaning. In this
paper we will argue against these models. Assuming as a case study the
issue of discourse coherence, we suggest that the assessment of
coherence is a top-down process, in which the construction of a
situational interpretation at the global meaning level guides local
meaning analysis. In support of our hypothesis, we explore the role of
executive functions (brain functions involved in planning and
organization of goal-oriented behaviors) in coherence's establishment,
discussing the results of several studies on narrative abilities of
patients with brain injuries. We suggest that, compared to other
models of discourse processing focused on comprehension, our model is
a viable candidate for an integrated account of discourse
comprehension and production.