1. Home
  2. Careers
  3. Fiction Writing

avant-garde

By Ginny Wiehardt, About.com

Definition: "Avant-garde" comes from a French term originally referring to the vanguard of the army. The term was extended beginning in the late 19th century to describe movements in art and literature that call for experimentation and revolt against tradition.
Common Misspellings: avant garde
Examples:
The language poets of today are considered by many to be avant-garde. Gertrude Stein and James Joyce were avant-garde for their time.
Explore Fiction Writing
About.com Special Features

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

Looking for a new job? Use these tips and put your best foot forward. More >

  1. Home
  2. Careers
  3. Fiction Writing
  4. Craft & Technique
  5. Glossary of Literary Terms
  6. Avant-garde -- Definition of Avant-garde for Creative Writers>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.