In medias res
In medias res is Latin for "into the middle of things."
It usually describes a narrative
that begins, not at the beginning of a story, but somewhere in
the middle — usually at some crucial point in the action. The
term comes from the ancient Roman
poet Horace, who advised the aspiring epic poet to go straight to the heart of
the story instead of beginning at the beginning.
From the Guide to Literary Terms by Jack Lynch.
Please send comments to Jack Lynch.
Note: This guide is still in the early stages of development.
Three question marks mean I have to write more on the subject. Bear with me.