What does the term "metafiction" describe?

The term "metafiction" is correctly described as fiction that self-consciously addresses the devices of fiction. This means that metafiction often blurs the lines between fiction and reality, drawing attention to its own status as a constructed narrative. It typically includes commentary on the writing process, acknowledges the presence of the author, or reflects on the act of storytelling itself. This self-referential quality invites readers to think critically about the nature of fiction and the conventions that shape narratives, promoting a deeper engagement with the text.

The other options do not accurately capture the defining characteristics of metafiction. Literature that focuses on non-fictional elements would encompass genres such as biography or journalism, which do not involve the self-reflexive techniques that are core to metafiction. A type of genre fiction suggests a classification based on specific themes or conventions, rather than on the metafictional approach. Lastly, while metafiction may utilize various narrative styles, it is not limited to a specific style and instead emphasizes the artifice of storytelling across different forms.