Definition & Meaning of "noir fiction"

What is "noir fiction"?

Noir fiction is a genre characterized by its dark, gritty, and often morally ambiguous storytelling. It typically features protagonists who are flawed or troubled, navigating a world filled with crime, corruption, and deception. The narratives often involve private detectives, criminals, or other characters entangled in complex and dangerous situations. Noir fiction emphasizes a sense of inevitability and explores themes such as betrayal, moral ambiguity, and the darker aspects of human nature. The genre is known for its mood of pessimism and its focus on the hidden, less pleasant side of society.