metacneme (C2)
noun
Pronunciation: /mɛtəkˈniːmə/
Definition
A figure of speech that self-consciously addresses the limits or contradictions of a text, often to subvert or challenge the reader's expectations.
Examples
The metacneme in the poem highlighted the tension between the speaker's words and actions.
By using a metacneme, the author drew attention to the artificial nature of the narrative.
How to Use metacneme
- use a metacneme (verb phrase)
- to employ a self-reflexive technique to challenge or subvert the reader's expectations — "The author used a metacneme to comment on the artificial nature of the narrative."
- metacneme of (prepositional phrase)
- a self-reflexive commentary on a particular aspect of the text — "The metacneme of the novel's ending highlighted the tension between the speaker's words and actions."
Browse the full Anaversity dictionary