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In journalism, a fact is just a fact. But in fiction, you have to build your case. It has to be made, step by step.
Edward P. Jones
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Interpretation

What this quote means

In journalism, facts are presented plainly, while fiction requires a layered and crafted narrative.

Edward P. Jones highlights the distinction between journalism and fiction, suggesting that while journalism deals with unembellished truths, fiction demands a more intricate construction of narrative. In fiction, the author must methodically build the story and its emotional weight, weaving together elements that appeal to the imagination and resonate on a deeper level with the audience.

Themes

JournalismFictionNarrativeTruthWriting

In practice

Example use cases

Quoting this in a writing workshop to discuss the differences between storytelling in journalism and fiction.

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There are those who write because they believe they have something so marvelous that it will make them famous and wealthy, a lauded commodity who will be invited to a lifetime of cocktail parties.
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Quote by Edward P. Jones | QuoteProject