In literature, a narrative can be seen as the way the author chooses to convey the events. If you look at the writing style, the use of language, that's part of the narrative. A story, though, is what actually happens. So, if you read a mystery novel, the plot twists and turns are the story, while the way the author leads you through those twists (like with cliffhangers or foreshadowing) is the narrative.
When it comes to literature, narrative is a complex web of elements. It includes not only the plot but also how the plot is presented, like the order of events, the flashbacks, etc. A story, on the other hand, is more of the basic plot line. Let's take 'Pride and Prejudice' as an example. The story is about the relationship between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. But the narrative includes Austen's use of irony, her detailed descriptions of the society, and the way she reveals the characters' thoughts and feelings, which all contribute to how the story is told.
Narratives and expositions are two different types of writing. The main difference lies in their purpose and way of expression. Narrations were mainly used to describe characters, events, situations, etc. Through narrating the story, they showed the psychology, behavior, and thoughts of the characters. The way narrative works is usually so that the emotional reader can directly feel the author's emotions and thoughts. The main purpose of an explanatory text was to explain things, concepts, principles, etc. by providing facts, data, details, etc. to prove or explain a certain point of view or idea. The way an explanatory text was expressed was that the rational reader needed to analyze and explain facts and data to understand the author's point of view. Therefore, the main difference between narrative and narrative lies in their purpose and expression. Narrations were more focused on the presentation of emotions and artistic conception, while explanatory writings were more focused on the provision of facts and data.
Look at the source. If it comes from someone's real - life experiences, it's likely a personal narrative. If it's made up but seems like it could happen in real life, it's realistic fiction.
In literature, if it has elements that clearly violate the laws of nature or are completely made up, like dragons or wizards, it's likely fiction. A story can be more ambiguous. If it's told in a narrative form but not clearly labeled as real or fictional, it could be either. History, though, will be based on research and evidence. For example, a history book will have references and sources. Fiction usually doesn't need such real - world references. A story might just be for entertainment, but history aims to inform about the past.
One way is to look for fictional elements. If there are clearly made - up characters, relationships, or events that don't have a basis in historical records, it's likely historical fiction. In narrative nonfiction, everything should be verifiable. For example, if a book has a character who is a time - traveling wizard during the Middle Ages, it's historical fiction.
One way is to look at the source. If it's based on real - life events, it's more likely a story. Fiction often comes from the author's creative mind with no real - world basis. For example, a war story might be based on historical battles, while a science - fiction story about alien invasions is clearly fiction.
The role of the supernatural also differs. In myths, the supernatural is often used to explain the fundamental aspects of life and the universe. In fiction, the supernatural can be just for creating an interesting plot. In the myth of Prometheus stealing fire from the gods, it's about the origin of fire for humanity. In a fictional horror story with a ghost, it's mainly for scaring the readers. Fiction is more flexible in terms of genre and style compared to the more traditional forms of myth.
Look at the language. Literature usually has a more refined and elaborate language, while popular fiction uses more common and easy - to - understand language. For instance, in literature, you might find long, descriptive passages and complex sentence structures. In popular fiction, sentences are often shorter and more to the point.
Well, in literature, fiction often includes elements like magic, made - up worlds, and extraordinary characters. Take 'The Lord of the Rings' for instance. It's set in a fictional Middle - earth with elves, hobbits, and wizards. Nonfiction is about real things. You can tell by whether the story could happen in the real world. Nonfiction might talk about historical events like World War II or the life of a famous person. Fiction gives you an escape into a world of the author's creation, while nonfiction educates you about the real world.
Well, in a bookstore, the literature section may have a mix of things. There could be books on history, philosophy, and also novels. Fiction, though, is more straightforward in that it's mainly novels and short stories. If a book has a 'based on a true story' label, it's on the edge of being literature but might also be considered a fictionalized account within literature. Whereas a book with a completely made - up world and characters is clearly fiction.
Look at the writing style. Literature often has a more sophisticated style, while pulp fiction is more straightforward. Also, consider the depth of the themes. Literature usually has deeper, more thought - provoking themes.