* Structure and Narrative Arc: Both can utilize narrative structures like a beginning, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. Even a non-fiction work like a biography will often follow this arc to make the story engaging and easy to follow.
* Use of Literary Devices: Both genres employ literary devices such as metaphors, similes, imagery, and symbolism to enhance their impact. A well-written non-fiction book will use vivid language to make its points more memorable and persuasive.
* Point of View: Both fiction and non-fiction employ a point of view, though the nature of this differs. Fiction might use first, second, or third-person perspectives; non-fiction often uses first-person (autobiography) or a third-person objective (reporting) perspective.
* Character Development (in non-fiction): While fiction explicitly builds characters, non-fiction also often features character development, particularly in biographies, historical accounts, and journalism. The reader develops an understanding of the people involved, their motivations and their impact.
* Theme and Message: Both fiction and non-fiction convey themes and messages. A novel might explore themes of love, loss, and redemption, while a non-fiction work might explore themes of social justice, economic inequality, or environmental change.
* Research and Development: While the nature of the research differs greatly, both genres require a level of planning and research. A fiction writer will research settings, characters, and historical periods to lend authenticity; a non-fiction writer will research facts, figures, and sources to support their claims.
* Engagement with the Reader: Ultimately, both fiction and non-fiction aim to engage the reader and leave a lasting impression. Whether through emotional resonance or intellectual stimulation, both genres strive for impact.
In essence, while fiction deals with imagined realities and non-fiction with documented realities, both use the tools of storytelling to communicate ideas and experiences to the reader. The difference lies in the nature of the reality being presented and the author's relationship to that reality.