Is fiction all a lie?

When it comes to writing great fiction, you might want to loosen your grip on reality!

Big confession today, storytellers! It’s ALL A LIE.

I’m talking about fiction of course.

By its very definition, fiction is a made-up story. It’s not pretending to be factually true, although it may contain many details that are, in fact true. 

But fiction not history, not memoir, not journalism. 

It’s a story, pure and simple.

I often say that storytelling is how we tell the truth about what it means to be human, but there is so much about good fiction that is nothing like real life! Some quick examples:

In real life, our days can be repetitive. People are creatures of habit and our day-to-day routines are fairly predictable.

When something happens that is way out of the ordinary it’s a big deal, and often quite shocking, either positively or negatively.

In real life, we don’t always have a clear sense of mission. We minimize or avoid conflict. Most of us are seeking fulfillment through stability, not perilous adventure!

Yet great stories are full of unprecedented events, motivated characters, and life-changing adventures. It’s one big plot twist after another!

So how does this phoney baloney version of existence we call fiction tell the truth? 

Importantly, how does our attachment to “reality” get in the way of writing good stories?

That’s what this livestream is all about. I think you’ll find it eye-opening. Is it time to loosen your grip on reality? I’d love to hear what you think.