lyric fiction

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lyric fiction

Also known as: lyricism

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

Lyric fiction is a literary development, influenced by Modernism, that shifts from naturalistic writing to a more poetic style. This approach involves selecting details and imbuing them with symbolic meaning, delving into characters' thought processes and emotions, and employing rhythmic prose.1

Key characteristics include:
* Poetic Language: Increased use of rhythmic prose and evocative imagery.1
* Symbolism: Details are chosen for their deeper, symbolic significance.1
* Psychological Depth: Focus on the internal thoughts and emotions of characters.1

Writers like Willa Cather, Katherine Anne Porter, and Henry Roth are noted for their lyrical contributions to fiction, often exploring themes of personal experience, social change, and the human condition with a poetic sensibility.1

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American literature
Lyric fictionists
An interesting development in fiction, abetted by Modernism, was a shift from naturalistic to poetic writing. There was an increased tendency to select details and endow them with symbolic meaning, to set down the thought processes and emotions of the characters, and to…
Read More
An interesting development in fiction, abetted by Modernism, was a shift from naturalistic to poetic writing. There was an increased tendency to select details and endow them with symbolic meaning, to set down the thought processes and emotions of the characters, and to…
Read More