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As soon as histories are properly told there is no more need of romances.
Walt Whitman
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Interpretation

What this quote means

True stories can be more compelling than fictional tales.

Walt Whitman's quote suggests that when the narratives of history are effectively conveyed, they possess so much depth, emotion, and significance that they surpass fabricated stories or romances. These historical accounts can evoke strong feelings and reveal profound truths about human experience, illustrating that reality can be just as engaging, if not more so, than fiction.

Themes

HistoryTruthStorytellingLiteratureNarrative

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about the importance of historical education.

More from Walt Whitman

All music is is what awakes from you when you are reminded by the instruments.
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Did you, too, O friend, suppose democracy was only for elections, for politics, and for a party name? I say democracy is only of use there that it may pass on and come to its flower and fruit in manners, in the highest forms of interaction between people, and their beliefs - in religion, literature, colleges and schools- democracy in all public and private life.
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In the confusion we stay with each other, happy to be together, speaking without uttering a single word.
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And whoever walks a furlong without sympathy walks to his own funeral drest in his shroud.
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