Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Nonlinear narrative structures refer to storytelling techniques that do not follow a chronological order. Instead, they present events out of sequence or use flashbacks and flash-forwards to create a more complex and layered narrative.
Parallel narratives: Multiple storylines happening simultaneously but with connections or similarities between them.
Stream of consciousness: A writing technique that presents thoughts and feelings as they occur in a character's mind without any logical structure or organization.