Creative Nonfiction: Literary Genres

Study Notes

Literature is defined as the "art of words," encompassing imaginative works in both poetry and prose.
Rexroth (2020) emphasizes that literature must demonstrate both the author's intention and aesthetic excellence.
Merriam-Webster's definition highlights that literature features "excellence of form or expression" and addresses themes of universal interest.
Two crucial elements of literature: excellence and expression; a literary work must effectively convey thoughts and emotions while showcasing artistic merit.
Literature is classified into two major forms based on content: fiction and nonfiction, and further categorized into prose and poetry based on techniques.

Genre refers to a distinct category of art characterized by specific form, content, and style.
The four primary literary genres are poetry, drama, fiction, and nonfiction, each with unique functions and features.
Understanding literary genres helps readers discern the author's message and enhances critical thinking about the material.

Fiction immerses readers in imaginative worlds different from their own, providing entertainment and insight.
Poetry enriches emotional and imaginative experiences, often invoking deep feelings through artistic language.
Drama enhances communicative skills, often exploring human experiences and interpersonal conflicts.
Nonfiction essays prompt critical thinking and offer insights about real-life topics and issues.

Fiction is a literary construct derived from the author's imagination, aimed to inform, entertain, inspire, or persuade.
Three major categories of fiction: realistic, non-realistic, and semi-fiction.
Fiction encompasses various forms, including:

Focuses on artistic value and literary merit, often tackling political criticism, social commentary, and reflections on humanity.
Character-driven, emphasizing inner character development over plot.

Also known as detective fiction, revolving around a detective character solving a case with suspenseful clues and unexpected conclusions.

Features dark, mysterious plots filled with suspense and techniques like plot twists and cliffhangers to maintain reader engagement.

Designed to shock and scare, often featuring supernatural elements like ghosts and monsters, with themes surrounding death and fear.

Blends creative storytelling with research, transporting readers to specific historical settings—real, imagined, or both—sometimes including real historical figures.