Quote The trouble with writing fiction is that it has...

“The trouble with writing fiction is that it has to make sense, whereas real life doesn't.” - Iain M. Banks

Decryption of quote

The trouble with writing fiction is that it has to make sense, whereas real life doesn't.

Imagine a world where everything falls into place perfectly, where every event is meticulously planned and every character's actions are logical and predictable. This is the world of fiction, where the author is in control of every detail, ensuring that the story follows a coherent and structured narrative.

But then there's real life, where chaos reigns supreme and things often happen without rhyme or reason. In real life, there are no neat resolutions or tidy endings, just a series of unpredictable events that unfold in a haphazard manner.

Writing fiction requires a certain level of order and structure, a careful weaving of plotlines and character arcs to create a cohesive and engaging story. It demands that the author adhere to the rules of logic and consistency, ensuring that every element of the narrative fits together seamlessly.

On the other hand, real life is messy and unpredictable, full of unexpected twists and turns that defy logic and reason. It is a chaotic and often nonsensical journey, where the only constant is change and the only certainty is uncertainty.

So, the trouble with writing fiction lies in the fact that it must adhere to the constraints of logic and coherence, while real life is free to unfold in all its messy and unpredictable glory. Fiction may strive to make sense of the world, but real life will always remain a mystery, full of surprises and contradictions.

But perhaps therein lies the beauty of both fiction and real life - in their ability to surprise us, to challenge our expectations, and to remind us that sometimes, the most meaningful moments are the ones that defy logic and reason.

So, while writing fiction may present its own set of challenges, it is also an opportunity to explore the complexities of human experience and to delve into the depths of our imagination. And in the end, isn't that what makes both fiction and real life so endlessly fascinating?




fiction writing writing-craft

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