Fiction and Testimony

Fiction can be defined as narrative that is, if not fully, in part based on events that are not factual. Conversely, there exists reality, stories that come from lived experiences. Often the reader considers these two forms separate, divided by an impassable barrier but in fact this is not the case. Reality and fiction play distinct roles in analyzing the human psyche and actual historical events; perhaps it is fiction that provides the most unique look at the truth.

In Fiction and Testimony Jaques Derrida explains, fiction opens up the realm of truthful testimony. What this means is that a fictional piece may often bear better witness to actual events. Maurice Blanchot chose to write his autobiographical telling of his near death with the Nazis in fictional third person. This interesting choice allows his story to unfold further and express testimonial emotions. The reaction to the sights of the witness is powerful and enhances the reader’s perspective.

Fiction functions as a literary tool to invoke emotion. Used properly with reality, the two play off of each other in incredible ways. In telling stories, the falsities of the piece actually point to truths about the era. For those writing these works provoked feelings ultimately give the reader insight not only into the world of the characters but the author as well. From an anthropological stand-point these narratives can act as useful tools.

Furthermore, from the author’s point of view, fiction and reality are also linked. The fiction embedded in the story acts to aid the reader in fully witnessing these events. Had Blanchot chosen to write his autobiographical story in first person, the reader certainly would have been able to feel the horrors he faced. Nevertheless, Blanchot used a fictional character to flesh out his account. This allows the reader to experience an enhanced angle on the story because in fact they are connecting with a spectator, a similar role the reader would possess had they been present.

In fully connecting with a piece, fiction and reality must occur at the proper ratios. These two seemingly opposite styles of writing have profound effects when melded. The reader can at times feel the author’s message with a more thoughtful and reflective perspective. Derrida explains fiction enhances the testimonial, providing evidence for events that reach realms much further than what is contained within the story.