What is the general term for a literary narrative that is invented rather than factual?

The term for a literary narrative that is invented rather than factual is "Fiction." Fiction encompasses a wide range of narrative work, such as novels, short stories, and plays, where the events, characters, and settings are products of the author’s imagination rather than rooted in real events or verified facts. This allows for creative expression, exploration of themes, and the construction of complex worlds that may reflect or diverge from reality.

In contrast, non-fiction refers to narratives based on factual information, aiming to convey truth and reality about real events, people, or concepts. Poetry, while it can be based on real experiences or emotions, often employs figurative language and structure that highlights its artistic qualities rather than focusing solely on factual storytelling. An essay, while it may analyze or reflect on real themes, does not fit the narrative structure typically associated with fiction. Therefore, among these options, only fiction accurately describes a literary narrative that is created from imagination rather than factual content.