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About this quote

What does it mean?
Great stories are rooted in truth, but truth is hard to find.
In plain terms
Good stories need real elements that are hard to find.
What can you take from it?
Seek truth to make your work compelling.

Where it applies

  • writing fiction
  • fact checking

Putting it to work

  • interview real people
  • observe daily life

Questions to consider

  • How do you find truth in your work?
  • Is reality necessary for fiction?

Another view

Fiction sometimes works best when invented entirely.

More from Ralph Ellison

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  2. Hibernation is a covert preparation for a more overt action.

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  3. Eclecticism is the word. Like a jazz musician who creates his own style out of the styles around him, I play by ear.

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