For my 100th post, I thought I would tackle a big issue. We've been talking a lot about telling the truth in my non-fiction class. Seems obvious to do so, but it isn't as simple as it sounds. What does being honest mean? Can anyone truly be 100% honest in their writing? When, or is embellishment okay in non-fiction? When does embellishment or creative license turn into lies and put you in front of a very angry Oprah? And, if everyone lies, can it really be so wrong? Is honesty really the best policy?Two people can have a great time together at dinner. But, if you ask each one later about their experience, they would likely each recall the night differently. Are they lying? No. But, every one's experience is impacted by so many things. One person remembers the wine because they drank it before in Tuscany. The other person recalls a great anecdote because it reminded them of a person they knew in high school. It all happened, it's all true, but it is a totally different take on the same dinner. Sometimes, my husband and I can be talking about the same event, but to listen to us, you might think we had been on opposite sides of the world.
I guess that is why I am having so much fun with the truth. It is much more malleable than anyone really realizes. Who said nuance was reserved for fiction?
So, for the 100th time, I'm putting my thoughts out there, and seeing what happens. What do you say? Up for a little truth?
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5 comments:
I don't know what you're talking about... I have perfect recall. Perfect I tells ya! Congratulations on the 100th post.
I think you've hit on two (at least) key truths about truth: it's (at least to some extent and in some contexts) subjective; and it's also—at least as our finite brains can process it—selective.
I don't wish to belogr that point ... but my spamword is belogr.
It's been said the worse kind of person is someone that can't see the difference between what's right and what's wrong. It's as if they're color blind to the truth, I suppose.
Personally, I think it's worse when someone recognizes the difference and does what's wrong anyway; hurting others while they're at it too. Along with the environment, and animal cruelty, that's a big pet peeve of mine, can you tell?
God, you know? It's so much easier to just be honest. :-)
p.s. You and Alison might be on the same wave length today. Head over to her blog when you get a mintue.
Sounds like it would be an interesting discussion. Even "facts" change. Scientific facts. Historical facts. Political "facts" - yeah, gotta do the quote unquote thing there, hahaha.
There are infinite points of view. Everyone has their own "truth."
At least that's my opinion. Maybe those of us who feel compelled to write understand that to some extent. I've loved the novels that have the same story told by different characters.
It is an interesting topic.
Thanks for joining the discussion. I've just been so wrapped up in this, I wanted to share it.
I do believe that my truth is different from other people's. My life experience changes how I see everything. That is why I love to write, and read other people's writing. You get to see where different people are coming from, and get a lot of takes on one subject.
Especially with erotica. Is there a subject more deserving of an honest portrayal than sex? Just because it's fiction doesn't mean there isn't honesty and truth in there. That is what I try to do when I write erotica. Tell the truth of that situation, those people, that moment. I hope I succeed.
Thanks again for indulging me, everyone.
Neve: I'm with Alison, I want to use my powers for good.
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