The term willing suspension of disbelief expands on Aristotle’s original “mimesis,” which means imitation, described in his book “Theory of Poetics.” Aristotle suggested that a writer must base fiction in fact enough to utilize universal themes that a reader can recognize and relate to despite the implausible aspects of a story.
Books with supernatural characters, such as vampires and werewolves are clear examples of the theory of willing suspension of disbelief at work. If the reader doesn’t accept for the sake of the story that these things are true within the context of the tale, then he won’t empathize with the characters or enjoy the story.
Willing suspension of disbelief can also refer to other art forms. Musical theater and movie musicals are both examples where actors burst into song to convey their character’s emotion. While this does not happen in real life, the viewer willingly suspends his disbelief to enjoy and relate to the play or film.