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Consider Tim O'Brien's concepts of "story-truth" and "happening-truth." In your own words, what do these terms mean and how do they differ? Mac Barnett claims that the stories he told children about being "a spy for the Queen of England" were some of the most "real" stories he ever told. How is this possible? Clearly, he was not a spy for the Queen of England. What do you think about these concepts in terms of the value that fiction can have in our lives? Choose one story we have read so far and discuss how you think the "story-truth" of that piece feels real for you as a reader. Be specific about the story and your experience with it as a reader.

Story that was read: "Postcard" by Joe Salvatore

Consider Tim O'Brien's concepts of "story-truth" and "happening-truth-example-1

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Final answer:

In Tim O'Brien's works, 'story-truth' refers to the subjective truth conveyed by the narrator or characters, while 'happening-truth' refers to the objective truth of the actual events. Mac Barnett's claim that his stories about being a spy for the Queen of England were some of the most 'real' stories he ever told highlights the value of fiction in evoking genuine emotions and insights. In the story 'Postcard' by Joe Salvatore, the emotional truth makes the 'story-truth' feel real and relatable for readers.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Tim O'Brien's works, 'story-truth' refers to the subjective truth conveyed by the narrator or characters, while 'happening-truth' refers to the objective truth of the actual events. 'Story-truth' focuses on the emotional and deeper truth of the story, while 'happening-truth' focuses on the facts. When Mac Barnett claims that his stories about being a spy for the Queen of England were some of the most 'real' stories he ever told, it means that these stories resonated with him on a personal and emotional level, despite not being factually true. This highlights the value of fiction in our lives, as it can elicit genuine emotions and provide meaningful insights.

One story that represents 'story-truth' and feels real for me as a reader is 'Postcard' by Joe Salvatore. The story revolves around a man who receives a postcard from his ex-lover, triggering a flood of memories and emotions. While the events in the story may not be factually true, the emotions and themes explored resonate with readers who have experienced heartbreak or nostalgia. This emotional truth makes the 'story-truth' of 'Postcard' feel real and relatable.

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