In medias res is a Latin phrase meaning "in the middle of things." It's a literary technique where a story begins in the midst of the action, often with little or no exposition. This can be a very effective way to grab the reader's attention and immediately draw them into the story.
Here are some examples of how in medias res is used:
* The Odyssey: The epic poem begins with Odysseus already stranded on the island of Calypso, long after his journey began.
* The Hunger Games: The novel begins with Katniss volunteering as tribute, without any explanation of the Hunger Games or the world she lives in.
* Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope: The film opens with the Rebel Alliance attacking a Death Star, immediately putting the viewer into the heart of the action.
By starting in the middle of things, the author can create a sense of mystery and intrigue. The reader is left to piece together what has happened before and how the story will unfold.