Truth in fiction sounds like an oxymoron, but is very
real. The true aim of serious fiction
is to find meaning by relating greater truths of human existence in “a made up”
story. I was thinking about this when
considering a story I’ve been working on about the disparity between ideals and
reality, and how people and institutions are often self-contradictory. There are many ways to write a true work of
fiction, and these are the stories I get excited about. Whether historical or contemporary, these
works are challenges, especially for the advanced writer, because as you grow,
you see more deeply the implications of what you are writing and its
consequences.
Characters’ motivated actions propel the narrative, and
often it is hard to see where the consequences of those actions will fall. Writing fiction is a process of exploration,
an exploration of characters’ actions, and the consequences. We can continue to explore as we write never
fully knowing anything but a small profile of the ending.
Lately I’ve been trying to minimize the distractions, video
games, etc., that keep me away from spending more time at the desk, writing
fresh material. Whether it’s this blog,
or my short stories, or the novel in progress, A CONTRITE SPIRIT, all of these
things need time and most need time every day.
Time and effort. I am also
immersing myself in several European languages concurrently, but mostly Italian
and French. I am doing this as an
adjunct to my writing in English, to expand my vocabulary and my understanding
of the nature of languages. I have found
a helpful resource for this which is free and if you are interested, contact me
here at the blog and I’ll send a link.
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