Postmodern writers emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by their experimental styles and skepticism towards grand narratives. They often blend genres, play with language, and challenge traditional storytelling techniques. Notable figures include Thomas Pynchon, Don DeLillo, and Kurt Vonnegut, who explore themes of fragmentation, irony, and the nature of reality. These authors frequently question the reliability of language and the concept of truth, reflecting the complexities of contemporary life. Their works often feature metafiction, where the text self-consciously addresses its own fictional status, as seen in Italo Calvino and David Foster Wallace. This approach invites readers to engage critically with the text.