PHANTOM NOVELS Meaning and
Definition
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Phantom novels refer to a specific type of literary genre that encompasses works of fiction that are either unfinished, unpublished, or even non-existent. The term "phantom" in this context implies a sense of being illusory, intangible, or ghost-like.
Phantom novels can encompass a range of creations, including those that were abandoned by the author before completion, manuscripts that were lost or destroyed over time, fictional works mentioned or alluded to within other books but never actually written, or even novels that are deliberately fabricated as part of a literary hoax. These phantom novels often exist only in the imagination or as fragments, drafts, or notes that give a glimpse into the author's creative process.
These elusive and elusive creations have captivated the literary world, generating intrigue and fascination among readers, researchers, and scholars. Phantom novels can offer insight into the minds of authors, allowing for a deeper understanding of their imaginations, storytelling techniques, and creative visions. They can also spark debates and speculation, attracting literary detectives who try to unravel the mysteries behind these non-existent or unfinished works.
In some cases, the term "phantom novels" is also used metaphorically to describe literary works that have been largely forgotten or neglected, despite once having been widely recognized or influential. These novels remain largely unseen or invisible to contemporary readers, often becoming lost in the vast ocean of literature throughout time.
Etymology of PHANTOM NOVELS
The term "phantom novels" does not have a specific etymology. It is a combination of two words: "phantom" and "novels".
The word "phantom" comes from the Greek word "phantasma", meaning "apparition" or "illusion". It entered the English language in the 16th century and initially referred to a supernatural or ghostly being. Over time, "phantom" acquired an extended meaning of something that is elusive, imaginary, or lacking substance.
The word "novel" stems from the Old Italian word "novella", meaning "new things" or "news". It was first used in the English language in the 17th century to describe a fictional prose narrative of considerable length, typically exploring character development and plot intricacies.
When combined, "phantom novels" refers to fictional works that may be elusive, imaginary, or lacking substance.
