Narrative Nonfiction:
* Focus: Tells a true story, often personal or biographical, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
* Structure: Follows a story arc, similar to fiction, with characters, setting, plot, and conflict.
* Purpose: To engage the reader emotionally and explore themes or ideas through a specific story.
* Examples: Memoirs, biographies, travel writing, investigative journalism.
Expository Nonfiction:
* Focus: Provides information or explanation on a topic, using facts and evidence to support its claims.
* Structure: Typically follows a logical and organized structure, using headings, subheadings, and transitions.
* Purpose: To inform, educate, or persuade the reader about a particular subject.
* Examples: Textbooks, articles, essays, documentaries, scientific reports.
Here's a table to summarize the key differences:
| Feature | Narrative Nonfiction | Expository Nonfiction |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Tells a true story | Provides information or explanation |
| Structure | Story arc (beginning, middle, end) | Logical and organized |
| Purpose | Engage emotionally, explore themes | Inform, educate, persuade |
| Examples | Memoirs, biographies, travel writing | Textbooks, articles, essays |
Think of it this way:
* Narrative nonfiction is like a movie: It tells a compelling story with characters and plot, but it's based on real events.
* Expository nonfiction is like a textbook: It provides information and facts in a structured and organized way, aiming to educate the reader.
Of course, there can be overlaps. Some narrative nonfiction pieces may include factual information, and some expository nonfiction may use storytelling elements to make the information more engaging. But the key distinction lies in the primary purpose and structure of the writing.