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Basically Quote by Rick Perlstein

“Personally, speaking as a historian and a storyteller, when it comes to inaccuracy in historical fictioneering, I follow the Shakespeare principle: I'm willing to overlook gobs of mistaken detail if the poetic valence is basically correct.” quote by Rick Perlstein
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“Personally, speaking as a historian and a storyteller, when it comes to inaccuracy in historical fictioneering, I follow the Shakespeare principle: I'm willing to overlook gobs of mistaken detail if the poetic valence is basically correct.”

Rick Perlstein

About This Quote

Source Interview: Literary Podcast, 2022

Historical fiction may sacrifice factual accuracy for poetic impact.

In simple terms: Poetry can outweigh factual errors.

Key Takeaway

Value emotional truth over detail.

Themes

history fiction poetry

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

analytical reflective

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • screenwriting
  • museum exhibits
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

narrative truth artistic license

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is artistic license acceptable?
  • How do you verify facts without stifling creativity?
A Different Perspective

Historical misinformation can mislead.

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