I don't want realism. I want magic! Yes, yes, magic! I try to give that to people. I misrepresent things to them. I don't tell the truth, I tell what ought to be the truth. And it that's sinful, then let me be damned for it!
The quote from Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire" reveals a deep desire for magic and illusion over harsh reality. The speaker expresses a need to provide others with an escape from the mundane truths of life, opting instead to create a more beautiful and idealized version of reality. This desire for magic highlights a longing for emotional richness and enchantment in human experiences.
By admitting to misrepresenting the truth, the speaker acknowledges that they may distort reality, yet they see this as a legitimate expression of creativity and human emotion. The acceptance of potential damnation for this choice underscores a commitment to delivering a more profound, dreamlike experience, suggesting that embracing fantasy can be a noble pursuit, even if it conflicts with reality.