Final Answer:
The times before the Great Rebirth are indeed the Unmentionable Times, and they are intended to represent our times.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term "Unmentionable Times" in the context of your question likely refers to a period that society, possibly in a dystopian setting, deliberately avoids discussing due to its undesirable or tumultuous nature. This concept is commonly found in literature, where societies choose to forget or censor certain historical periods. The phrase "Supposedly they are our times" suggests a connection between the Unmentionable Times and the reader's contemporary era.
This could be a literary device employed to create a sense of familiarity and provoke reflection on the potential consequences of the choices made by society. The intentional vagueness allows for multiple interpretations, fostering engagement and speculation among readers.
In a dystopian narrative, the Unmentionable Times might represent a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked technological advancements, environmental degradation, or societal collapse. The deliberate avoidance of specifics creates a sense of mystery and allows readers to project their concerns onto the narrative.
The use of such a device underscores the timeless nature of certain societal challenges, encouraging readers to reflect on the potential paths their own society might take. While the direct answer is concise, the exploration of the symbolism and literary techniques employed in labeling a period as "Unmentionable Times" adds depth to the understanding of the narrative's purpose and the author's intent.