In this article, we appraise Bachelard’s theory of time and show how it relates to his theories of science and art. He stressed in the theory of time that the essence of time is the instant and that creation can happen in the instant alone. In the first chapter, we examine the extent to which his argument shares common grounds with his theory of science. In both theories, creation becomes possible when continuity is broken.

Moreover, the theory of time influenced his theory of art. In the second and third sections, we examine the similarities and differences between them. The constancy of images discussed disparagingly in his previous writings, is ascribed a more positive dimension through the lens of his new concept of ‹ material imagination ›, which relates to the notion of Elements.

Finally, Bachelard’s theory of time is akin to his theories of science and art. This is the missing link that we have tried to disclose and which is indispensable to fully understand his theory.