One way to tell is by looking at the writing style. Realistic fiction usually has a more straightforward style, while literary fiction often has a more complex and nuanced style. Also, the focus of the story can be a clue. If it's mainly about real - life situations and characters, it's likely realistic fiction. If it seems more about exploring ideas and emotions through unique writing, it's probably literary fiction.
When reading, consider the plot structure. Realistic fiction often has a linear plot that moves from one event to another in a logical order. Literary fiction may have a more fragmented or non - linear plot. Another aspect is the characters. In realistic fiction, characters are often well - rounded but act in ways that are common in real life. In literary fiction, characters might be more symbolic and their actions can be more open to interpretation. For example, in a realistic fiction story about a working - class family, the characters' actions are based on normal family and work - related situations. In a literary fiction piece, a character might represent an idea like isolation or hope, and their actions are more ambiguous.
Look at the plot structure. If it's a simple, page - turning plot with a clear goal, like solving a crime or getting the girl in the end, it's likely commercial fiction. Literary fiction might have a more meandering plot.
Look at the cover blurb. If it emphasizes the beauty of the writing, complex characters, and exploration of big ideas, it might be literary fiction. If it talks about a relatable story set in a real - world context, it could be realistic fiction.
Look at the plot. In commercial fiction, the plot is usually action - packed and moves at a brisk pace. It has a clear goal or problem to be solved. In literary fiction, the plot may be more meandering, with the focus on the characters' internal growth and relationships. For example, in a commercial spy novel, the plot revolves around the spy's mission, but in a literary novel about a family, the plot may be about the changing dynamics within the family over time.
Look at the writing style. If it has elaborate and complex language, it could be literary fiction. For example, if there are long, descriptive passages and lots of symbolism. Popular fiction usually has a more straightforward language style. Just like how Dan Brown's novels use simple language to quickly move the story along.
You can tell the difference by considering the plausibility of the events. In fiction, the sky's the limit for the plot. But in realistic fiction, the events should be something that could potentially occur in real life. For example, a story about a detective solving a crime using only his wits and normal investigation methods is more likely to be realistic fiction, while a detective solving a crime with the help of a mind - reading crystal would be fiction.
One way to distinguish is by the writing style. Literary fiction usually has a more elaborate and sophisticated style compared to general fiction. Also, literary fiction often delves deeper into themes like the human experience, morality, etc.
One way is by looking at the setting. If it's a familiar, contemporary setting like a modern city or a small town, it might be realistic fiction. If it's a made - up world like Middle - earth in 'The Lord of the Rings', it's general fiction. Another factor is the characters' abilities. If they have normal human abilities, it could be realistic fiction. If they can fly without any devices or have superpowers, it's likely general fiction.
Examine the characters. In traditional fiction, characters might have superhuman powers or be from different mythical races. In realistic fiction, they are normal humans with normal human problems. Also, the plot in traditional fiction may have a more predictable pattern based on common archetypes like the hero's journey. Realistic fiction's plot is more about the randomness and complexity of real life. The themes in traditional fiction are often timeless, like good vs evil. Realistic fiction themes are more related to current social and cultural issues.
One way to distinguish is by the content. In historical fiction, there is a combination of historical accuracy in terms of the period, like the way people dressed, the social norms, and fictional elements like the main characters' personal stories. Fiction is just pure creativity, like a story set in a world where gravity works backwards. Nonfiction is full of real - world information. It could be about the economy, politics, or any real - life topic. Another way is the language used. Nonfiction may use more technical or formal language when presenting facts. Historical fiction may have a more narrative and descriptive style while still incorporating historical details. Fiction has a very open - ended style as it's all about the author's imagination.
Well, think about the purpose. Genre fiction is mainly for entertainment within the framework of its genre. If you pick up a horror novel, you expect scares. Literary fiction is more about making you think and feel deeply. It may not have a straightforward plot like a genre book. The characters in literary fiction are often more complex and less archetypal compared to those in genre fiction, which tend to follow certain character types within their genre.