Cloudstreet, written by Tim Winton, has all the requirements and qualities of a text with textual integrity. Textual integrity consists of structure, form and language which create a meaning.

Cloudstreet is a family saga which employs a generally linear and sometimes circular structure. It meets the criteria of a saga in two ways.

Firstly, it takes place over 4 generations, and even though the oldest generation is only embodied through memories and dreams it does help the narrative achieve resolution by bringing the reader closer to the Cloudstreet characters.

Secondly the novel takes place over 25 years and speaks of events that actually took place in the time the novel was set; WWII, Nedlands Murders. Through Winton's use of chapters and sub headings the readers do not notice time passing but the important details instead.

The structure is mostly linear but there are times which incorporate flashbacks or are in...