Application Quote by Laurence Overmire
“Prose pretends to be straightforward in its application to the truth, but truth itself is a dissembler. Poetry, much more honest, knows the deception can't be overcome.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Nature of Narrative, 2018
Prose claims objectivity but often masks truth; poetry embraces its deceptive nature, revealing deeper honesty.
In simple terms: Prose pretends to be honest; poetry admits deception.
Recognize the limits of straightforward narrative.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- creative writing
- journalism
- academic analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can truth be fully captured in any form?
- How does deception serve artistic truth?
Poetry’s honesty can be subjective and culturally biased.