In Salman Rushdie's "Midnight's Children," there is a significant emphasis on the distinction between factual events and the narrative crafted by the author. The quote highlights that, within the realm of autobiography and literature, the effectiveness of persuasion often outweighs the literal truth of occurrences. This suggests that the author's skill in storytelling can shape the reader's perception and belief more powerfully than the actual events themselves.
This perspective invites readers to reconsider the nature of autobiographical writing. Instead of viewing it as a mere account of facts, it emphasizes the role of interpretation and narrative construction. The ability of an author to influence beliefs through their storytelling reveals the deeper connection between literature and the subjective experience of truth, underscoring the artistry involved in writing.