Creative Non-fiction

Creative Non-fiction

writers often incorporate several elements of nonfiction when writing. It involves writing about personal experience, real people, or events. Thus, creative nonfiction is the literature of fact rather than fiction. Authors can write about anything, such as a personal experience, current events, or issues in the public eye. The writer can also inject personal thoughts, feelings or opinions into writing.

The work of creative nonfiction does not follow imaginary but with the actual, with what actually is or actually was or what actually happened, in short the actual is our touchstone.

Story Telling/ Narration

The writer needs to be able to tell his/her story. A good story includes an inciting incident, a goal, challenges and obstacles, a turning point, and resolution of the story.

Character

The nonfiction piece often requires a main character. Example, if a writer is creating his/her memoir, then the writer is the central character.

Setting and scene

The writer creates scenes that are action-oriented which include dialogue and contain vivid descriptions.

Plot and plot structure

These are the main events that make up the story. In a personal essay, there might be only one event. In memoir, there are often several significant events.

Figurative Language

The writer often uses simile and metaphor to create an interesting piece of creative nonfiction.

Imagery

The writer constructs "word pictures" using sensory language. Imager can be figurative or literal.

Point of view

refers to who is telling or narrating a story

Dialogue

These are the conversations spoken between people. It is an important component of creative nonfiction.

Theme

There is a central idea that is weaved through the essay or work. Often, the theme reveals a universal truth.