Explanation
Fiction that takes its own constructed nature, narrative structure, or media form as its subject. The fictional world opens up a second level on which its own creation becomes observable.
Example
A character in a novel remarks that her chapter must end soon.
Counterexample
A historical novel is not metafictional simply because it is literature.
Distinction
Distinction from metalepsis: A historical novel is not metafictional simply because it is literature.
Effect on thought and perception
The fictional world opens up a second level on which its own creation becomes observable.
Resonance
Metafiction makes a directed relationship perceptible: The fictional world opens up a second level on which its own creation becomes observable.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Metafiction“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-134-020. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-134-020The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.