The Shared Elements of Creative Nonfiction and Fiction

When exploring the boundaries between creative nonfiction and fiction, one often sets out to define the differences between them. However, a closer look reveals that these two distinct forms of narrative writing share a surprising number of elements, especially when it comes to storytelling techniques. This article delves into why creative nonfiction and fiction are so similar, focusing on their plots, characters, and thematic explorations.

Plots and Arcs

At the core of any compelling narrative, whether in fiction or creative nonfiction, is a strong plot that drives the story forward. Creative nonfiction, much like fiction, often structures its narratives through a series of events that build upon each other, creating a cohesive storyline that follows a specific arc. This arc typically includes an inciting incident, a series of conflicts, climax, and resolution, reflecting the natural sequence of events as depicted through the eyes of the author.

Take, for instance, Mary Karr's memoir The Liar's Club. Karr organizes her memoir into a clear narrative arc with a keen eye for detail and a strong sense of storytelling. The book opens with early childhood details, providing a foundation, and progresses to her tumultuous teenage years, culminating in her decision to leave home and enroll in an abusive marriage. Each event is meticulously structured to create a compelling and emotionally resonant story, mirroring the traditional plot structures found in fiction.

Characters as Protagonists and Antagonists

Characters are a fundamental component of both creative nonfiction and fiction. In creative nonfiction, the author may portray themselves in a narrative, oftentimes embodying a central character role. This self-characterization allows for a deeper exploration of personal experiences and emotions, much like the process of character development in fiction. For example, the author’s transformation throughout the narrative can be akin to a character arc, where they face challenges, overcome obstacles, and evolve into a new person.

Fiction, too, relies heavily on character development. A well-crafted fictional character should have depth, complexity, and a journey that is both relatable and meaningful to the reader. Characters in creative nonfiction can serve a similar purpose, offering a human element to the story. Consider Wild by Cheryl Strayed, where the author portrays her own journey as a harrowing and transformative experience, much like the fictional characters we follow in any novel. In both cases, the character's journey dominates the narrative and drives the story forward.

Thematic Explorations and Depth of Writing

Both creative nonfiction and fiction delve into deep, thematic explorations that provide the narrative with a broader context and deeper meaning. In creative nonfiction, the author uses their own experiences to probe into larger themes, such as loss, identity, and personal transformation. For example, Ben Blacker’s Adventures in the Magical Afterlife explores the theme of grief and transformation through a mix of personal anecdote and magical realism, emphasizing the power of storytelling to make sense of life’s challenges.

In fiction, themes are often more overtly developed and explored. A writer might focus on societal issues, personal struggles, or the human condition, using their characters and plot to delve into these larger themes. Philippa Gregory’s historical fiction, such as Birds of Prey, explores themes of politics and power within the context of a gripping narrative, providing a rich tapestry of themes that engage the reader on multiple levels.

The Role of Artistry and Freedom

Both creative nonfiction and fiction benefit from a level of artistic freedom that allows authors to craft narratives that are not only engaging but also meaningful. In creative nonfiction, the author often has the freedom to use literary techniques such as symbolism, metaphor, and imagery to enhance the storytelling. This freedom can be seen in works like No One Is Here Except All of Us by Louise Erdrich, where the author employs rich, poetic language and vivid imagery to enrich the narrative and explore deeper themes.

Fiction also provides ample space for creativity, allowing authors to experiment with narrative structure, dialogue, and character interaction. Herman Hesse's Siddhartha exemplifies this, with its unique narrative structure and rich character development. The novel's use of stream-of-consciousness and philosophical reflections creates a deeply personal and insightful exploration of the human spirit.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the shared elements of creative nonfiction and fiction, such as plots, characters, thematic explorations, and artistic freedom, reveal a profound connection between these two forms of storytelling. Both seek to connect with readers on a personal and emotional level, offering insights into the human experience through carefully crafted narratives. Whether readers engage with a memoir or a fiction novel, they are often presented with a compelling journey that challenges, entertains, and resonates with their own lives.