The phrase refers to a type of publication or literary work where the narrative perspective employs an omniscient point of view. This allows the author to delve into the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters, providing a comprehensive understanding of the story’s events and the motivations behind them. A classic example is found in many 19th-century novels, where the narrator knows all and sees all, guiding the reader through the complexities of the plot and the inner lives of the characters.
This narrative technique offers several advantages. It facilitates a broader scope of storytelling, enabling the exploration of multiple storylines and perspectives within a single work. This can lead to a richer, more nuanced understanding of the themes and issues being presented. Historically, its use has allowed authors to comment on societal norms and moral dilemmas from a position of perceived authority, shaping readers’ understanding of the world and their place within it.
