The excerpt highlights the author's understanding of the pervasive nature of misinformation in news reporting. The subject reflects on their own experiences in journalism, acknowledging that they have often fabricated stories themselves. This admission suggests a deep skepticism toward the authenticity of media narratives, emphasizing that the blurring of truth and fabrication is a common practice in the industry.

By confidently stating, "I've made stuff up forever," the individual reveals a certain pride in their manipulative skills, implying that the media landscape is often untrustworthy. This self-awareness connects to the broader theme of "fake news," highlighting the challenges of discerning reliability in news sources, and reflecting on how such practices undermine credibility in journalism.