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Belief Quote by Charles de Lint

“The thing to remember when you're writing," he said, " is, it's not whether or not what you put on paper is true. It's whether it wakes a truth in your reader. I don't care what literary device you might use, or belief systems you tap into--if you can make a story true for the reader, if you can…” quote by Charles de Lint
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“The thing to remember when you're writing," he said, " is, it's not whether or not what you put on paper is true. It's whether it wakes a truth in your reader. I don't care what literary device you might use, or belief systems you tap into--if you can make a story true for the reader, if you can give them a glimpse into another way of seeing the world, or another way that they can cope with their problems, then that story is a succes.”

Charles de Lint

About This Quote

Source Interview: Writing Advice, Charles de Lint, 2010

A story’s power lies in its ability to awaken personal truth in readers, not in factual accuracy.

In simple terms: Stories should awaken truth in readers.

Key Takeaway

Focus on emotional resonance.

Themes

storytelling truth empathy

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

literary educational

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • teaching
  • therapy
  • marketing pitches

Key Concepts

literature psychology communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • What truth do you want your story to reveal?
  • How can you balance truth with artistic freedom?
A Different Perspective

Readers may reject truth that challenges their beliefs.

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