Things need not have happened to be true. Tales and adventures are the shadow truths that will endure when mere facts are dust and ashes and forgotten.
This quote highlights the profound distinction between factual accuracy and the enduring power of stories and myths. In our quest for truth, we often focus intensely on empirical facts, believing them to be the ultimate representations of reality. Yet, history and human experience suggest that stories—whether fairy tales, legends, or personal narratives—can sometimes hold deeper truths about human nature, morality, or universal principles than straightforward facts. Tales have the ability to shape cultures, inspire individuals, and teach lessons beyond the realm of verifiable truths. They serve as shadow truths—impressions of reality that, although not factually accurate in every detail, capture essential human truths that resonate across generations. These stories often endure because they evoke emotions, embody values, and provide meaning—elements that pure facts may lack. When facts fade into dust and ashes, tales continue to live on, crafting collective memories and guiding moral compasses. Such stories can often be more impactful because they are accessible and emotionally compelling, making the truths they convey more memorable and meaningful than cold, hard data. This perspective encourages us not to dismiss the value of tales and stories, but to recognize their vital role in human culture and understanding. They remind us that truth isn’t solely about verifiable facts but also about the stories we tell ourselves and others about who we are and what we believe in.
