I think the difference between a lie and a story is that a story utilizes the trappings and appearance of truth for the interest of the listener as well as of the teller. A story has in it neither gain nor loss. But a lie is a device for profit or escape. I suppose if that definition is strictly held to, then a writer of stories is a liar - if he is financially fortunate.
John SteinbeckIf we could learn even a little to like ourselves, maybe our cruelties and angers might melt away.
John SteinbeckA book is somehow sacred. A dictator can kill and maim people, can sink to any kind of tyranny and only be hated, but when books are burned the ultimate in tyranny has happened. This we cannot forgive.
John SteinbeckWhen a man says he does not want to speak of something he usually means he can think of nothing else.
John Steinbeck