Jim Slaughter Poet Free verse

It's In the Details

When it comes to poetry and fiction,
The last thing a writer should want to be is a liar.
Ironically, in his quest for the truth, a writer must frequently lie.
Absolute accuracy is not the point in a poetic or fictional landscape.
The most important element is that the writer, himself,
Like the most convincing actor, believes the lie he is telling.
Writing, like life, is in the details.
What really happened is irrelevant.
The truth, as it were, if it were,
Can always be found in the perspective of an observant reader.

♡Like0

Share Poem

---

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Sara Kendrick January 20, 2023 at 12:26 PM I completely understand. Enhancement of a line seems to be what poets do and so do writers of Novels. Thanks for sharing and for dropping by my page. Sara Jim Slaughter January 20, 2023 at 1:33 PM Thanks, Sara, and yes, I like "enhancement" better than "lying".

Valsa George January 19, 2023 at 7:44 PM I do agree fully with your opinions on writing of any sort, be it poetry or fiction. "......a writer must frequently lie. Absolute accuracy is not the point in a poetic or fictional landscape." A truth that needs to be underlined. Beautiful observations, Jim. Jim Slaughter January 20, 2023 at 11:16 AM Thank you, Valsa. But, we can try to keep the lying to a minimum as best we can, n'est-ce pas?

Michael Tor January 17, 2023 at 8:54 AM Jim this is so incredibly insightful. You have to take a moment and think because you go into denial mode, but if your honest with yourself you realize you are exactly right. Great truth written here. A favorite... Thanks for sharing... Jim Slaughter January 17, 2023 at 10:57 AM Michael, thank you. I just hope that my literary fibs are all little white ones.

John Ozemko January 16, 2023 at 5:03 AM well spoke. Jim Slaughter January 16, 2023 at 10:45 AM Thank you, John.

Joseph P. DiMino January 14, 2023 at 11:13 AM The reader knows the writer's truth as passion. When one believes in poetry, his write delivers such passion -- that is truth enough. Very profound write. Enjoyed the inspiring read very much. Jim Slaughter January 14, 2023 at 2:32 PM Still disseminating your poetic wisdom, Joe. Thank you.