Skip to content

The lies our characters tell themselves

David Gane
David Gane

Akira Kurosawa's Rashomon tells the story of a priest and woodcutter trying to understand a murder by listening to the testimonies of the multiple people involved. Ultimately, they struggle to find the truth amongst the lies.

A similar type of story occurs within each of us. We tell ourselves multiple accounts of events, each altered by perception, time, memory, and emotion. They are never the truth but distillations of what we believe the truth is.

When writing your fiction, consider how all these factors affect your characters. Ask yourself: What lies are they telling and hoping they'll convince themselves it's the truth?

Blog
David Gane

David Gane Twitter

Co-writer of the Shepherd and Wolfe young adult mysteries, the internationally award-winning series, and teacher of storytelling and screenwriting.

Comments

Related Posts

Members Public

What's it for?

Seth Godin recently asked two questions in a blog post: "Who's it for? What's it for?" When writing, do you know who it's for? It doesn't have to be an audience with a capital "A." It doesn't have to be for any audience; it can be for just you. But

Members Public

Journey with your characters

Most people can't have the whole story in their heads. Too many pieces, too many moving parts. That doesn't mean you must plan it out. Once your character's story takes shape, then begin. Allow yourself to be surprised and adapt, and let your imagination take you on a journey. That

Members Public

New Process, New You

When starting a new project in a new form or medium, you need to give yourself the time to figure things out. Even if you're a powerhouse at creation, your familiar process will be off. The slightest change can lead to resistance or struggle. It's all okay, so be patient