What is a fundamental characteristic of fiction?

Fiction is primarily defined by its use of imaginative narratives that originate from the author's creativity rather than real events or factual accounts. This characteristic allows authors to create entire worlds, characters, and stories that do not exist outside of the narrative. Fiction can take many forms, including novels, short stories, and even plays, each enabling different explorations of human experience through invented plots and characters.

While some fiction may incorporate elements inspired by real life, the essence of the genre lies in its capacity to transport readers to realms created from imagination. Thus, the inclusion of imaginary narratives is a fundamental aspect that distinguishes fiction from non-fiction, which is rooted in factual accounts or real-world events. Additionally, fiction does not adhere to specific structures like verse nor does it inherently carry moral lessons, making it a diverse and flexible form of storytelling.