• Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • TikTok
  • Tumblr
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Tahlia Newland

Editor, Author & Artist

  • Editing Services
  • Me & My Creative Life
    • My Books
      • Metaphysical Fiction
    • My Poetry
    • My Masks
    • My Hats
    • Permaculture, Forest & Garden
    • Performing Arts
  • Blog
  • Contact

What is metaphysical fiction?

November 28, 2012 by Tahlia Newland

Metaphysical fiction is a growing, but little-known, genre of stories that explore, or are based on, some form of philosophy or system of thought. Such fiction includes some aspect of the inner, incorporeal, supernatural, spiritual, archetypal or transcendent aspects of human experience and  may emphasise an individual’s movement towards self-actualisation.   Readers may gain insight into, or be stimulated to reflect on, such things as the nature of existence, the mind, the soul, the psyche, psychology, the spiritual journey and so on.

Siddhartha by Herman Hesse is an excellent example of the genre. A modern example is The Way of the Peaceful Warrior. Another excellent, but less well-known example is On the Soul of a Vampire by Krisi Keley.

Here are a couple of other definitions.

‘Metaphysical fiction transcends the here & now into a deeper universal spiritual truth, and is characterized by an intangible mysticism that embeds itself in the written word.’ @jordyj6

” Modern metaphysical/visionary literature often crosses genres and enters into the little celebrated field of magic realism. In this genre, the supernatural is part of tangible reality; spirit and nature are interwoven, inseparable, and unquestioned, and the extraordinary is made ordinary. Metaphysical literature tells tales of the inner life . . . Its task is to give voice to soul and its yearning to transcend the suffering of everyday reality.” Niamh Clune.

How is it different to ordinary novels about supernatural characters and events? In order to make the distinction clear, we have to understand the meaning of the word metaphysical.

Definition of metaphysical
 http://dictionary.reference.com

1. pertaining to or of the nature of metaphysics (metaphysics is defined as – philosophy, especially in its more abstruse branches or the underlying theoretical principles of a subject or field of inquiry.)

2. philosophy.

  • concerned with abstract thought or subjects, as existence, causality, or truth.
  • concerned with first principles and ultimate grounds, as being, time, or substance.
3.highly abstract, subtle, or abstruse. (Some definitions add the word incorporeal here)
4.designating or pertaining to the poetry of an early group of 17th-century English poets, notably John Donne, whose characteristic style is highly intellectual and philosophical and features intensive use of ingenious conceits and turns of wit.
5. Archaic. imaginary or fanciful.  (Some definitions add the word supernatural here)

A common understanding of the term metaphysics is that it refers to a kind of speculative physics. Where physics is a study of the nature of reality at its most subtle level, metaphysics is speculation on, or ideas about, the nature of reality. 

 Therefore it is the philosophy or thought-provoking nature of metaphysical fiction that sets it apart from ordinary magical realism and supernatural fantasy.

  • A story about reincarnation is not metaphysical fiction unless it presents and provokes thought into the philosophy behind reincarnation.
  • In the same way, a story about a ghost is not metaphysical fiction unless it explores the nature of life after death in relation to a comprehensive vision of reality.
  • A story about a soul that has no philosophical basis or component is not metaphysical fiction, whereas a story about a vampire that explores the nature of the soul is.

How does Metaphysical fiction differ from other related genres?

Visionary fiction. Sometimes the terms are used synonymously  but my understanding is that visionary fiction is more obviously ‘spiritual’ in nature, and that  an individual’s movement towards self-actualisation is a primary theme.  In metaphysical fiction, though the philosophy underlies the story, the story takes precedence over expression of the philosophy;  in visionary fiction the expression of the philosophy is more important than the story. Also in metaphysical fiction there is a supernatural or incorporeal element which may not be there in Visionary fiction. Here are a couple of definitions.

Visionary Fiction embraces spiritual and esoteric wisdom, often from ancient sources, and makes it relevant for our modern life. These gems of wisdom are brought forth in story form and in a way that readers can experience the wisdom from within themselves. It emphasizes the future and envisions humanity’s transition into evolved consciousness. While there is a strong theme, it in no way proselytizes or preaches. 

 Visionary fiction is fiction in which the expansion of the human mind drives the plot. http://www.visionaryfiction.org

Magical realism. Doesn’t necessarily have the philosophical aspect.

 Mystical realism and mystical fantasy deal with themes and plots regarding the nature of the divine.

Spiritual fiction eg Christian fiction, deals more directly with moral and religious themes, or expression of religious values,  activities and dogma.

Do you agree with my definition of Metaphysical fiction? What does the term mean to you?

My reviews of metaphysical fiction can be found here.

A list of quality independently published metaphysical fiction can be found on the Awesome Indies site.

And of course all the books in my booksh0p here are metaphysical in nature.

 

Share this:

  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Related

Filed Under: Other stuff Tagged With: definition, magical realism, mystical fiction, philosophy in fiction, psychology, spiritual fiction, visionary fiction, what is the definition of metaphysical fiction

« Review: Covet by Melissa Darnell
Review: An Heiress at Heart by Jennifer Delamere »

Comments

  1. nissa_loves_cats says

    November 30, 2012 at 5:10 am

    Very informative blog post. Don’t think the local bookstore is going to be adding a ‘metaphysical fiction’ shelf any time soon, but the idea may appeal to a significant segment of readers and writers.

  2. Linda Pendleton says

    December 25, 2012 at 11:52 am

    One of best examples of metaphysical fiction is the Fourth Awakening Series by Rod Pennington and Jeffrey A. Martin. Has held the # 1 position at Amazon Mysticism in the U.S. and UK for months. The Fourth Awakening Chronicles was just published.

    • Tahlia Newland says

      December 26, 2012 at 11:03 am

      Thanks, I’ll check it out.

  3. Leslie H. says

    March 23, 2013 at 1:33 pm

    I have to recommend a fantastic metaphysical fiction book by author Jay Allan Luboff entitled, “Harry Pond Looks Homeward: The Spiritual Adventures of an Ohio Farm Boy” (http://harrypondadventures.com/). The book follows Harry Pond, a Vietnam Vet returning home for the first time in three years. Almost as soon as Harry settles in there is something unexplainable and mysterious happening in his hometown. His Uncle Julius has had a personality change and is now keeping company with dark companions. The book soon becomes a battle between good and evil as Harry and his sister Becky try to save the farm from those who want the land for all the wrong reasons. They take on this mission with help from guardian angels, ascended masters, and show the reader that good always prevails It truly is a magical book that weaves messages of spiritual wisdom into it that can help anyone on their spiritual path.

  4. PJ Swanwick says

    May 15, 2013 at 1:02 am

    “My favorite definition is “Visionary fiction is fiction in which the expansion of the human mind drives the plot.” http://www.visionaryfiction.org

    I think that the term is broad enough to encompass much of what you’ve described above, with a little expansion. It may be one of the best (if not the best) definition of this new genre, particularly considering Amazon already supports it as a category.

    Linda, I whole-heartedly agree that Rod Pendleton’s “The Fourth Awakening” is one of the best contemporary metaphysical/visionary novels I’be found. Were you aware that he’s published a second book in the series, and a set of novellas called “The Fourth Awakening Chronicles” that will eventually become a new book? I highly, recommend all his work in this genre.

    • Tahlia Newland says

      May 15, 2013 at 9:01 am

      Agreed. Their definition is pretty all encompassing. I think visionary fiction is easier to define and recognise than metaphysical fiction because of that main thrust in the story line, and undoubtedly it can also refer to many of the books called metaphysical, but not all. The two terms aren’t interchangeable though, because in metaphysical fiction there is a supernatural or incorporeal element which may not be there in visionary fiction, (I have a review coming on my Ripples in Water blog on the 23rd May 2013 which is clearly a visionary & not metaphysical work,) and there isn’t the emphasis on an individual’s movement towards self-actualisation or as you quote ‘the expansion of the human mind drives the plot.’

      For example, my book ‘You Can’t Shatter Me’ is about handling a bully, and the ‘Rule of Ten’ books are murder mysteries, but both have strong Buddhist underlying principles and include experiences that are incorporeal. These books are metaphysical and not visionary.

      I guess that’s why the Amazon category is called metaphysical and visionary. I’m glad I don’t have to choose between the two for lethal Inheritance because it is definitely both.

  5. PJ Swanwick says

    May 15, 2013 at 5:39 am

    Tahlia, would you like to do a review of On the Soul of A Vampire for Fiction For A New Age, since you recommended it as a good example of metaphysical fiction? Or perhaps you have some other book reviews of novels that fall into the genre that I could reprint? Thanks for considering my site – I’m really impressed with how gorgeous and well organized yours is. I’m still a newbie when it comes to designing and running a site.

    • Tahlia Newland says

      May 15, 2013 at 8:38 am

      Hi PJ, Sure I’ll do that. Not sure when I’ll get around to it though. You’re welcome to reprint any of the reviews on Ripples in Water blog http://ripplesinwater.com Just go to categories and choose metaphysical fiction & they’ll all come up. Or you could choose the book review category. All the reviews on that site are metaphysical or visionary fiction

  6. Antara says

    March 12, 2015 at 2:11 am

    Very helpful post! Thank you. I would only complain that there is no share buttons.

    • Tahlia Newland says

      March 12, 2015 at 6:41 am

      Whoops; there should be. Thanks for letting me know. Something isn’t working right. I’m glad you enjoyed the post.

Trackbacks

  1. A definition of Metaphysical Literature | Happy Honkers says:
    November 28, 2012 at 1:28 pm

    […] My attempt at a definition of Metaphysical Literature is posted on my author site here. […]

  2. Guest Post: Setting the Stage: Visionary & Metaphysical Fiction « Visionary Fiction Alliance says:
    January 10, 2013 at 11:38 pm

    […] http://tahlianewland.com/2012/11/28/what-is-metaphysical-fiction/  […]

  3. Guest Post: Setting the Stage: Visionary & Metaphysical Fiction | Tahlia Newland, author says:
    January 23, 2013 at 12:05 pm

    […] http://tahlianewland.com/2012/11/28/what-is-metaphysical-fiction/  […]

  4. A further definition of metaphysical fiction | Ripples in Water says:
    May 14, 2013 at 8:52 am

    […] On the 28th of that month I published the results of my further inquiries into the definition of metaphysical fiction on my author blog, but I didn’t publish it here. I recently up dated that article and suggest that you take a look. http://tahlianewland.com/2012/11/28/what-is-metaphysical-fiction/ ‎ […]

  5. More than a story, it’s a metaphorical journey into the mind. | Tahlia Newland says:
    June 30, 2013 at 11:09 am

    […] Today, I’m back on the blog of the gorgeous Dr Niamh Clune talking about the symbolism in the Diamond Peak Series. This will be of particular interest to those of you who are into metaphysical fiction. […]

Search

Recent Posts

  • Is What Makes Good Writing Just an Opinion?
  • Fantasy Book Review: The High Priestess by Val Tobin
  • Book Genres – What you Need to Know.
  • How to See Edits in Word Documents
  • Finding an Editor You Can Trust

View Posts by Category

Writing a novel? Feeling overwhelmed? Get new insight and inspiration with my FREE Novel Revision Checklist. 

DOWNLOAD  NOW

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Free Book Download  
Get Lethal Inheritance free when you sign up to my new release email list.  I won’t share your details and you can unsubscribe at any time.

My Latest Books

  • Fallout: Recovering from Abuse in Tibetan Buddhism
  • The Elements of Active Prose: Writing Tips to Make Your Prose Shine
  • The Locksmith's Secret
    Rated 5.00 out of 5

Alliance of Independent Authors

Alliance of Independent Authors

Click HERE to see all my books.

Books
Reviews, Writing, Cats & Contemplation
Editing

Click HERE to subscribe to my newsletter and get my fantasy novel Lethal Inheritance FREE. 

How to Meditate – the crucial points

See more

Hi I’m Tahlia Newland

I can help you express yourself and share your story with the world.

 

Do you want to write a really good story and have it professionally polished and published?

As an editor, I help you be the best writer you can possibly be. I strengthen your voice, support your vision and can assist you all the way to publication.

On my blog you’ll find book reviews, writer’s tips, contemplative articles on meditation and working with your mind, and occaisonally pictures of my Burmese cats.

If you’re interested mostly in my contemplative articles then  Sign up to the Living in Peace & Clarity Newsletter to get those articles delivered by email. And check out the resources on my Living in Peace and Clarity Page.

I do a lot of community work involving blogging and general support for Buddhist students processing revelations of abuse in their spiritual communities.  Please consider supporting me to continue this work.

Occiasonally, when inspired and not too busy with community work, I make masks.

All my books are

Visit my Mask & Steampunk Accessories Shop

2015-03-19 15.46.12
Blue Burmese
Like cats in stories? Check out my books. And click the photo to read the cat colomn.

Click Here for More Articles in This Series

Book reviews – sci fi, fantasy, literary fiction, Buddhist fiction and related non-fiction

Fantasy Book Review: The High Priestess by Val Tobin

Fantasy Book Review: The High Priestess by Val Tobin

The High Priestess: Persephone’s Return is the third book in Val Tobin’s Tales from the Unmasqued World Series, and in it she deepens and expands the stories from the previous two book. The book has two central story arcs based around characters we’ve met before. One arc follows Kelsey (a human) who is with Josh […]

More Posts from this Category

My gorgeous Burmese cats

Renovated Website & Cute Cat Series

Renovated Website & Cute Cat Series

Yesterday I did a photoshoot for my renovated website. Take a look around, particulary at the home page (Click on my name at the top to go there). It’s designed for editing clients with my books secondary because I need to focus on the part of this publishing business that actually earns me more than […]

More Posts from this Category

Seven of my novels have an Awesome Indies Seal of Excellence

Four of my books earned BRAG Medallions

I abide by the ethical author code

I'm an Ethical Author
Alliance of Independent Authors

Copyright

All material on this website is under copyright to Tahlia Newland and cannot be shared without written permission.

  • Editing Services
  • About Me
  • My Books
  • My Masks
  • Blog
  • Contact

Copyright © 2023 · Amoré Theme by Oh, Hello Designs on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

FREE Novel Revision Checklist

Written a book? Need some help reviewing and revising it? Download my Novel Revision Checklist for step by step guidance.  

DOWNLOAD NOW

no thanks

{"cookieName":"wBounce","isAggressive":false,"isSitewide":true,"hesitation":"120","openAnimation":false,"exitAnimation":false,"timer":"","sensitivity":"","cookieExpire":"7","cookieDomain":"","autoFire":"","isAnalyticsEnabled":false}

Please note: I am closed for holidays from Christmas day until Jan 30th 2023. Dismiss