BellaOnline Forums Books and Music Christian Literature Truth in fiction?

Albeit, fiction means a story is make believe; however, many of these stories have a basis in truth.

Do you feel that theology should be accurate in fiction or should an author be able to use it as a starting point and twist it to "fit" the story?

Does an author have a responsibility to the reader to always use correct facts and doctrines?

I'd really like to know your viewpoint!

I don't know that an author has a responsibility to always use correct truth and doctrines. So often, writing and storytelling can be ways for the writer to work through their own struggles with truth. Forcing a responsibility to "correct" truth and doctrines could keep a writer from really grappling with truth for themselves. Even when a writer grapples with a truth, the reader is able to learn from the writer. I think what is important for teen and adult readers is to learn to read with discernment, and be able to call into question the message the writer is sending. For children's literature, however, it is much more important to present as much that is correct as possible. As a child gets older, you can start asking them "Does this make sense? do you agree? why or why not?" but a small child needs to build their foundation first. Personally, I have learned a great deal from a few authors I whole heartedly disagree with, even more so when I could explain exactly why I didn't agree with them.

That's a very good point and I like your view! I hadn't thought about it in terms of the author struggling to work out his or her own viewpoints and issues. The reader could potentially share some of the same ideas and work them out along with the author.

My concern in presenting reviews is that I examine what is or is not based on sound, traditional doctrines. A new Christian is like a baby on milk and lacks the ability to discern truth from fiction. Ultimately, it is up to the reader to decide if they are ready to read a book that may contain mixed doctrine.

Blessings!