introduision

Introduision is a term used in literary and media studies to describe a concise opening technique that sets the tone, mood, and early thematic frame of a work without supplying full exposition. Defined as a compact sequence that introduces core elements such as setting, atmosphere, or protagonist, introduision aims to orient the audience while inviting ongoing interpretation.

Etymology and origins: The word is a blend of introduction and illusion (or vision) and has emerged as a neologism in 2010s critical discussions about narrative openings. Its precise origin is unclear, but it is widely used in scholarly and teaching contexts to describe a specific kind of opening scene that resists immediate explanation.

Characteristics and usage: An introduision typically lasts a few minutes or a few pages; it presents a self-contained moment or image rich with sensory detail, suggesting stakes and themes rather than outlining plot points. It is commonly employed in experimental fiction, film, or digital media to establish world-building and tone before conventional exposition.

Relation to other concepts: Introduision is distinct from prologues, inciting incidents, and straightforward expositions. It foregrounds mood, ambiguity, and interpretive openness, while still serving as a foothold for later narrative development. Critics note that a well-executed introduision can improve pacing and reader/viewer engagement by creating curiosity with limited information.