eftirspurnarsögu

Eftirspurnarsaga is a term in Icelandic that combines eftirspurn, meaning a request or inquiry, with saga, meaning a story. It denotes a narrative that centers on pursuing the outcomes and consequences of a prior inquiry or demand. The concept is used in contemporary Icelandic media discourse and in linguistic and literary discussions as a descriptive label rather than a fixed genre.

Definition and scope. An eftirspurnarsaga follows the trajectory of a request from its initiation through the responses and eventual outcomes. It emphasizes documentary detail, including dates, documents, quotes, and the steps taken by authorities or organizations to address the inquiry. The focus is on transparency and traceability, showing what was asked, how it was handled, and what was or was not produced as a result.

Usage and context. In journalism, an eftirspurnarsaga may be produced to resolve a reader’s question or to track a public petition or information request through official channels. It often begins with a clear question, followed by a timeline, the handling process, any delays, and the final resolution or remaining gaps. In academic contexts, the term can describe a case-study approach that documents the process of obtaining information as part of a research design.

Style and tone. The form is typically factual and neutral, with a chronological or stepwise structure that foregrounds documentary evidence over interpretation. While the term is recognizable in Icelandic discourse, its use remains specialized and context-dependent.