The Truth Is In the Fiction

     Why are fictional stories important? Fiction allows writers and readers a space in which they may ponder greater ideas, explore interests, feelings, and states of being. While safe in the realm of fiction, authors may illustrate ideas that they may not dare say outright or in other instances, they may fully illustrate what consequences they think may come of present actions. These stories give readers a chance to step into the role of someone else, to experience different cultures, responsibilities, and possibilities. Even the most fantastic story may inspire change or action others may illustrate how much they should appreciate their lives.
     Now for the soapbox portion of today's blog. We are becoming like the town whose name has been forgotten. There are so many kids who are not being taught the stories that will guide them in the future and tell them where we came from. Instead, many parents plop the kid in front of Barney or hand them some battery operated game system and go off without a thought. Then they wonder why the child does not know how to act decent and why they seem less than brilliant. God help us all if Barney becomes the dominate story in our world. (Stepping off the soap box and putting it away for now)...
     I am enjoying Haroun and the Sea of Stories!  I see many places Rushdie has added older themes or was influenced by other authors. I wonder if some of the ones I am noting are not just reminders of others I have read. The first one who came to mind was Dr Seuss. The next was The Bible. I am still making my list, but I wanted to note that this book is quite the roller coaster. One moment we seem to travel with Willy Wonka on some odd ship then Jesus calms the storm. I will discuss more when I have read further, I am only on page 51.
    I also read the first chapter of Frye's book. If you are just beginning this one, especially if you have never read any of Frye's works, I highly suggest taking notes. I will post mine at a later time. He is brilliant-take your time and try to really understand what he is saying, you will be happy you did later.
    I look forward to reading your blogs, and I will attempt to make mine interesting. Happy reading!