Meta fiction and Narrative Self-Consciousness in Contemporary Literature

Abstract

Metafiction and narrative self-consciousness are defining features of contemporary postmodern literature. These narrative strategies challenge conventional storytelling by foregrounding the constructed nature of fiction. Rather than presenting a seamless illusion of reality, metafictional works openly acknowledge their artificiality, question authorial authority, and invite readers into the interpretative process. This paper examines the theoretical foundations of metafiction and explores its manifestation in contemporary literary works. It argues that narrative self-consciousness not only destabilizes traditional narrative structures but also serves as a critical tool to interrogate truth, identity, and representation in a fragmented postmodern world.