(no subject)

[darchildre]

Library conversation:


Patron: So...what's the difference between fiction and a myth?

Me: Well, fiction is any story that's made up, and...let me look up an exact definition. Okay, a myth is a sacred narrative. So something about gods and divine heroes.

Patron: But it's still just fiction.

Me: Insofar as the Bible is fiction, yes.



(I...should probably not have said that last thing. But a) it's true and b) as a person who currently has to clarify when I talk to people about my religion that no, I am not talking about Tom Hiddleston, I am a little touchy about anyone's sacred stories being dismissed as "just fiction".

Fortunately, the patron was not offended and then went on to ask me who had originally written the Greek myths. Yes.)

Comments

[silveradept]

Probably not, but it its accurate, and it invites the listener to understand how certain stories are more than just fiction. So good for you.

[tricksters_queen]

Actually, that was quite a brilliant response (though I can see why some people might become offended by it)... Honestly, though, I am rather pleased that your patron was curious, and interested, and not at all stupidly awful. :)