Metafiction is a form of literature that self-consciously addresses the devices of fiction, often blurring the boundaries between reality and fiction. It invites readers to reflect on the nature of storytelling by highlighting its own artificiality. This can include characters who are aware they are in a story or narratives that comment on their own structure. Common techniques in metafiction include breaking the fourth wall, where characters speak directly to the audience, and incorporating unconventional formats, such as footnotes or multiple perspectives. Notable examples of metafiction include works by authors like Jorge Luis Borges and Italo Calvino, who explore the complexities of narrative and authorship.