How to write truthfully, types of truth and truth definition
Tell the truth: this is easy to understand but difficult to execute, especially over decades and across generations.
So as Halloween looms, I’m asking do you have skeletons in the closet?
Are there ‘truths’ that should be outed and included in your life-story creating?
And what is the definition of truth and the different types of truth anyway?
I answer all these questions in today’s article.
So grab your vampire fangs or witch’s outfit and let’s take a walk on the wild side.
Related article – Writing tips: The ultimate guide of life-story tips for new writers
Truth definition and types of truth
What does it mean to tell the truth?
Firstly truth can be defined as the facts or reality of what happened.
Secondly, it implies honesty and integrity.
Certainly truth should also be based on evidence.
And if we start digging there are many types of truth.
For example, factual, logical, arithmetical, geometrical, ethical truths and many others.
Follow the trail
Before you sit down to write, check if a memory, event or skeleton in your family history closet is true.
For example, confirm facts using a birth, death or marriage certificate or other documents.
Also use private documents like receipts, bills or personal papers.
Indeed this is often all it takes to tell the truth and clear up a family mystery.
Related article – How to beat memoir writer’s block in 8 simple steps
Ask about to tell the truth
Another way to confirm truth or tell the truth is to ask others.
But beware points of views can differ or be contradictory.
Indeed both parties may ‘tell the truth’, however, recollections differ.
So by all means include these versions but make sure they are clearly attributed for the reader.
Related article – Writing challenge – part 2: 6 things to remember before you hold a family stories interview
A bit of detective work
Telling the truth sometimes boils down to logic.
So play the role of investigative journalist or detective and think about the facts, characters, settings and social pressures of the time.
Ask yourself what do I think happened, why, how?
Next come up with a hypothesis and include it in your life story.
But make sure you are transparent with your readers by letting them know this is your ‘theory’.
Related article – How to make a timeline: What is a timeline + timeline example (plus free printable!)
Follow the x-factor to tell the truth
Occasionally an event or memory doesn’t stack up or feel right.
You have a niggling doubt there is more to the story.
So double-check your facts, try other avenues or a new tact of inquiry.
In short, follow your sixth sense to discover and tell the truth!
Related article – Genetic memory: Does your memoir include genetic memory examples?
Final say: Tell the truth
A life story requires us to tell the truth.
Certainly readers will sense if we write a sanitised version of what did or didn’t happen.
So to tell the truth: be brave, curious, verify facts, talk to others, use logic and following gut feelings.
And of course respect others’ rights and feelings.
This way you will out skeletons in the closet and live to tell the tale.
Happy writing!
Free gift!
The Your Family Stories system helps you record a loved one’s life story so memories live on. Sign up here to get the first few sections for free.
Your say
What mystery are you trying to solve? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Send me an email or leave a reply in the comments section at the end of this article.
Get in touch
Have you hit a roadblock planning, creating, polishing or finishing your life story? Let me know here so I can help!
Don’t miss an article
Sign up here to get instant notifications when new material is published.
First published October 25, 2018: This article has been updated and improved.
