In Margaret Atwood's "Alias Grace," the character MacKenzie explores the concept of lying, suggesting it's a complicated and severe accusation. When questioned about the honesty of a character, she reflects on the nature of storytelling and truth. She poses the question of whether the infamous storyteller Scheherazade lied, asserting that her tales transcend conventional definitions of truth, implying that the essence of storytelling lies beyond mere factual accuracy.

MacKenzie implies that Grace Marks may not be lying in a traditional sense but instead may be expressing what is necessary for her survival or to meet particular goals. This perspective fosters an understanding of truth as subjective, highlighting how individuals may reshape their narratives to navigate their circumstances. Ultimately, the text invites readers to consider the deeper meanings and motivations behind the words shared, questioning the boundaries between truth, fabrication, and the necessity of storytelling.