Do not, under any circumstances, belittle a work of fiction by trying to turn it into a carbon copy of real life; what we search for in fiction is not so much reality but the epiphany of truth.
In "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi emphasizes the unique value of fiction in conveying deeper truths that may not be found in real life. She argues that attempting to mold a story into mere realism can diminish its artistic integrity and the profound insights it can offer. Fiction serves as a mirror to our experiences, allowing readers to explore complex ideas and emotions beyond the constraints of reality.
Nafisi suggests that what we seek in literature is not just a reflection of life but an illumination of deeper truths that resonate on a personal level. This pursuit of truth through imagination helps us engage with the complexities of human experience, making fiction an essential component of understanding ourselves and our world more fully.