In Richard Russo's "Empire Falls," the statement "The truth does not serve as a substitute for a good answer" encapsulates a profound insight into the nature of communication and understanding. This quote suggests that while truth is important, it may not always provide the clarity or reassurance that people seek in difficult situations. Instead, a satisfactory answer often relies on perspective, context, and the emotional needs of those involved.

This idea highlights the complexity of human interaction, where conveying the truth can sometimes be less impactful than delivering a well-crafted response that resonates with emotions. Russo's work explores these themes, illustrating how characters navigate their lives, relationships, and challenges by seeking meaningful connections rather than just factual correctness.