Intilishni

Intilishni is a communicative practice observed in the fictional Naraen culture, denoting a form of deliberative dialogue that prioritizes listening, restraint, and consensus-building over rapid argument. In scholarly descriptions, intilishni encompasses both a conduct norm—how participants should speak to each other—and a dramaturgical pattern—how a discussion unfolds.

Originating from two roots in the Naraen language, inti- meaning to listen and lishni meaning to hold or defer, the term entered ethnolinguistic literature in the late 20th century. Some early texts record variant spellings such as intilishini.

Practices include an explicit pause after each contribution, paraphrasing of others' points, and formal procedures to invite dissenters to speak. It reduces interruptions and fosters inclusive participation, with the aim of achieving shared decisions rather than individual advocacy. In disputes, mediators may invoke intilishni as a normative standard.

Intilishni features in Naraen rituals, community councils, and storytelling sessions. In modern translations and fiction, it is often cited as a model of constructive dialogue and democratic deliberation. Critics caution that the tempo of intilishni may slow urgent decisions and that external pressures can push participants toward preexisting positions.