“I don’t know about lying for novelists. I look at some of the great novelists, and I think the reason they are great is that they’re telling the truth. The fact is they’re using made-up names, made-up people, made-up places, and made-up times, but they’re telling the truth about the human being—what we are capable of, what makes us lose, laugh, weep, fall down, and gnash our teeth and wring our hands and kill each other and love each other.”
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Modern Relevance
In this quote, Maya Angelou discusses the role of truth in storytelling, emphasizing that great novelists are able to convey universal truths about human nature through their fictional works. This concept is still highly relevant today, as readers continue to be drawn to stories that shed light on the complexities of the human experience. By delving into the depths of emotions, relationships, and societal issues, authors have the power to resonate with readers on a deep and profound level. Through their imaginative storytelling, they can offer insights into the human condition and provoke thought, reflection, and empathy in their audience.
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