METAFICTIONAL Meaning and
Definition
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Metafictional is an adjective that refers to a distinctive literary technique employed in works of fiction where the author intentionally draws attention to the artifice and construct of the narrative itself, thereby blurring the line between reality and fiction. It involves self-reflexivity within a story, as the characters, plot, or even the entire narrative structure becomes self-aware and self-referential, acknowledging its own fictional nature. This technique is often used to explore the nature of storytelling, the relationship between author and reader, and the limits of fiction.
The metafictional approach allows authors to break traditional narrative conventions, inviting readers to reflect on the act of reading itself and challenging their assumptions about the reliability and authenticity of the story being presented. This can be achieved through various devices, such as characters becoming aware of their existence as fictional constructs, the inclusion of authorial comments or intrusions, or even deliberate inconsistencies in the plot to highlight the fictionality of the narrative.
The purpose of employing metafictional elements is to create a heightened sense of reader engagement, intellectual challenge, and critical reflection. It encourages readers to question the nature and purpose of storytelling, and to consider the ways in which literature can be a reflection of reality or a means of exploring deeper truths.
Overall, metafictional works are characterized by their self-conscious and self-reflective nature, offering a unique and thought-provoking reading experience.
Common Misspellings for METAFICTIONAL
- netafictional
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- mwtafictional
- mstafictional
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- metadictional
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- metafictionnal
Etymology of METAFICTIONAL
The word "metafictional" is derived from two components: "meta-" and "fictional".
- "Meta" is a prefix that originates from the Greek word "meta", meaning "beyond" or "transcending". In English, it is commonly used to indicate something that is self-referential or that goes beyond its own boundaries. For example, "metaphysics" refers to the branch of philosophy that deals with concepts beyond the physical world, and "metamorphosis" refers to a transformation or change beyond the usual limits.
- "Fictional" is derived from the Latin word "fictio", meaning "a shaping, a fashioning". In English, it refers to something invented or imagined, often within the context of literature or storytelling. Fictional works include novels, short stories, and fictional characters.
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