* Rejection of Grand Narratives: Postmodernism challenges the idea of absolute truth or objective reality. It rejects "grand narratives" that claim to explain everything, like Marxism or scientific positivism. Instead, it embraces subjectivity, multiple perspectives, and the idea that truth is always partial and constructed.
* Blurring Boundaries: This rejection of absolute truth leads to a deliberate blurring of boundaries between fiction and nonfiction. Postmodern writers often use elements of both to highlight the constructed nature of reality. They may weave real events into fictional narratives, or present fictional characters as historical figures, forcing the reader to question what is "real."
* Intertextuality: Postmodern works often engage in intertextuality, referencing other texts and borrowing from different genres. This intermingling of sources further blurs the line between fact and fiction, as the reader is constantly confronted with different perspectives and interpretations.
* Self-Reflexivity: Postmodern texts are often self-reflexive, meaning they are aware of their own construction as texts. They may break the fourth wall, directly address the reader, or even comment on their own fictional nature. This self-awareness further complicates the distinction between reality and fiction.
In essence, by blurring the lines between fiction and nonfiction, Postmodern works challenge the reader to question their own assumptions about reality, truth, and the nature of knowledge. They force us to confront the fact that our understanding of the world is always shaped by our own perspectives and experiences.