ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

Contextual explanation · NAV-G03-025

Breaking the illusion

This explanation addresses the term in its originating context. It is not an additional canonical Atlas profile.

Explanation

Disruption of fictional illusion is an interruption or weakening of absorption in a represented world. In metafiction, the construction of a text or performance may become conspicuous. This does not mean that every self-reflexive device has the same effect. A work can discuss its own representation while retaining strong audience involvement. The term therefore concerns a possible effect arising between design and reception. Analysis must show which expectation is interrupted and what kind of attention replaces it.

Movement of thought

1. Describe the illusion previously sustained. 2. Identify a potentially disruptive device. 3. Examine its relation to the representational frame. 4. Separate textual features from reception assumptions. 5. Explain the proposed shift of attention.

Example

A character looks at a displayed chapter heading and asks who wrote it. The work's construction may thereby move into the foreground.

Counter-test

A narratorial comment does not necessarily eliminate suspense or emotional involvement.

Scientific use case

Textual analysis can identify possible triggers; claims about actual effects require reception evidence.

Effect

Disruption makes the conditions of representation perceptible.

Resonance

Attention moves from the world within the image towards the frame that lets it appear.

Distinction

Distinguish this effect from metafiction as a device, opacity and accidental production errors.

Sources