Fiction is a genre of writing that is not based on fact or reality but rather on the imagination of the writer. It can take many forms and can be written in different styles and genres, but all fiction shares certain key elements that make it what it is. In this article, we will examine some of the most common elements in general fiction.

Characterization

Characters are the people or creatures that inhabit the world of the story. They are usually the central focus of the story and drive the plot forward. Characterization is the process of creating and defining a character. It involves giving the character a name, a physical description, a personality, motivations, and goals. Good characterization is essential to making the story believable and engaging. Characters can be dynamic, meaning they change over the course of the story, or static, meaning they remain the same throughout the story.

Plot

Plot refers to the sequence of events that make up the story. It is the backbone of the story and provides structure and direction. A good plot is well-paced and moves the story forward. It often includes a series of conflicts and obstacles that the characters must overcome in order to achieve their goals. The climax of the story is the high point of tension and conflict, and the resolution is the conclusion of the story and the resolution of the conflicts.

Setting

Setting refers to the time and place in which the story takes place. It can be a real place, or it can be an imaginary place created by the writer. The setting provides context and atmosphere for the story. It can also have an impact on the characters and the events of the story. For example, a story set in a small town may have a different feel and atmosphere than a story set in a big city.

Point of View

Point of view refers to the perspective from which the story is told. It can be first person, meaning the story is told from the perspective of one of the characters, or third person, meaning the story is told from an outside perspective. The choice of point of view can have a significant impact on the way the story is told and the way the reader experiences the story.

Theme

Theme refers to the central idea or message that the story conveys. It is not always explicitly stated, but it is implied through the events of the story and the characters’ actions and experiences. The theme can be something abstract, such as love or bravery, or it can be something concrete, such as the impact of war or the importance of family. The theme is what gives the story meaning and depth.

Symbolism

Symbolism is the use of symbols or images to represent something else. In fiction, symbols can be used to represent ideas, emotions, or events. For example, a rose might symbolize love, or a storm might symbolize conflict. The use of symbolism can add depth and meaning to the story and can help to reinforce the theme.

Imagery

Imagery is the use of descriptive language to create vivid images in the reader’s mind. It can be sensory, meaning it appeals to the senses, or it can be visual, meaning it creates images in the reader’s mind. Imagery is an important tool for writers because it allows them to create a vivid and memorable experience for the reader.

Conflict

Conflict refers to the struggle between opposing forces in the story. It can be internal, meaning it takes place within the mind of a character, or it can be external, meaning it takes place between characters or between a character and the world around them.

You can read the book Skimming The Surface if you are looking for a book that has the genre of general fiction. Reading this book, you will get to see that the elements of general fiction are perfectly fitted into the story. Not to forget, the novel has a great storyline that will keep you reading for hours.