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Believe Quote by John Ralston Saul

“In my mind, there's not a great difference between what people call fiction and non-fiction. So in that sense, I'm like an early-18th-century person. I actually believe there's one way of writing.” quote by John Ralston Saul
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“In my mind, there's not a great difference between what people call fiction and non-fiction. So in that sense, I'm like an early-18th-century person. I actually believe there's one way of writing.”

John Ralston Saul

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2015

The quote blurs the line between fiction and non‑fiction, suggesting both are storytelling forms that convey truth.

In simple terms: Fiction and non‑fiction are both ways to tell stories and reveal truth.

Key Takeaway

Recognize storytelling in all writing.

Themes

truth storytelling genre perception literature

Mood

thoughtful analytical reflective

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • writing essays
  • teaching literature
  • journalistic reporting
  • creative nonfiction
  • critical analysis

Key Concepts

Narrative theory epistemology postmodernism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does labeling affect credibility?
  • When does creative liberty become distortion?
A Different Perspective

The distinction can matter for factual accountability and audience expectations.

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