1. Metafiction: This is the technique of a work of fiction drawing attention to itself as a fictional construct. This can be done in various ways, such as:
* Breaking the fourth wall: Directly addressing the reader.
* Self-reflexivity: The narrative commenting on its own construction.
* Unreliable narrator: A narrator whose perspective is biased or untrustworthy, forcing the reader to question the truth of the story.
Example: In *The Great Gatsby*, Nick Carraway, the narrator, frequently reflects on the nature of storytelling and his role in constructing the narrative. This self-awareness challenges the reader to consider how the story is being presented.
2. Pastiche: This technique involves borrowing and mixing elements from other genres, styles, and historical periods, creating a hybrid text. This can be seen as a playful subversion of literary traditions and a commentary on the nature of cultural appropriation.
Example: In *The Crying of Lot 49* by Thomas Pynchon, the novel incorporates elements of detective fiction, satire, and conspiracy theory, creating a fragmented and disorienting narrative that reflects the postmodern condition of fragmented identity and meaning.
These are just two examples; postmodern literature is rich with diverse techniques, and often blends multiple approaches.