Introduction
Have you ever sat down to write something and hit a wall, unsure if it should be a true story or one from your imagination? You’re not alone. Choosing between fiction and nonfiction is one of the most important decisions any writer can make. It’s kind of like picking between two roads that lead to very different destinations. One is paved with real-life events and facts; the other winds through a world made entirely from your mind.
This article is here to help you figure out which path to take—and why. Whether you’re an aspiring author, a passionate storyteller, or someone who simply wants to understand what makes stories tick, you’ll find guidance here. And we’ll even sprinkle in insights inspired by Ted Delgrosso, whose journey through storytelling offers real-world relevance to this timeless question.
What’s the Difference Between Fiction and Nonfiction?
Let’s keep it simple. Fiction is made up. Nonfiction is based on facts. Fiction includes novels, short stories, and even some poetry. Nonfiction includes biographies, memoirs, essays, and journalism. Think of fiction as a painting—you can create any image you want. Nonfiction is more like a photograph—it shows what’s really there.
Why Your Purpose Matters Most
Before you even think about words on a page, ask yourself: Why am I telling this story? If your goal is to inform, educate, or document, nonfiction might be the best fit. But if your aim is to entertain, explore emotion, or delve into possibilities, fiction could be your vehicle.
It’s like cooking. If you’re following a recipe, you want accuracy. But if you’re creating a new dish, you want creativity. Knowing your purpose helps guide every other decision.
Who’s Your Audience Anyway?
Different audiences have different expectations. Readers of nonfiction expect facts and truthfulness. They want to learn something. Fiction readers, on the other hand, want to feel something—they’re open to drama, fantasy, mystery, or romance.
Ted Delgrosso, for instance, has written for both audiences. His nonfiction pieces reflect deep insight and research, while his fiction dives into human psychology and emotional nuance. He tailors his approach based on who’s reading.
The Power of Personal Truth
Memoirs and personal essays are nonfiction, but they still need a compelling story. The trick? Personal truth. Even if the facts are accurate, they must be presented in a way that feels emotionally honest.
If you’ve lived something powerful, nonfiction lets you share it with authenticity. But remember, people don’t just want a list of what happened—they want to know how it felt.
When Facts Become Limiting
Let’s be real: real life doesn’t always make a great story. Maybe the ending isn’t satisfying. Maybe the details are boring. In nonfiction, you’re tied to what really happened, and that can limit your narrative options.
That’s where fiction shines. Want to rewrite the ending? No problem. Want to combine three people into one character? Go for it. Fiction gives you freedom that nonfiction can’t.
Letting Imagination Run Wild
Fiction is where your imagination gets to play. You can build entire worlds, invent characters, and explore themes without being shackled by what’s “true.” This is perfect if you want to tackle big ideas—like justice, love, or loss—in symbolic or metaphorical ways.
Picture fiction as a sandbox. You bring the toys and decide what to build. There are no wrong answers—only possibilities.
The Hybrid Zone: Creative Nonfiction
If you love facts but crave creativity, there’s a sweet spot called creative nonfiction. This genre includes memoirs, personal essays, and narrative journalism—real stories told with literary flair.
Writers like Ted Delgrosso often tread this line beautifully. His nonfiction writing carries the narrative depth of fiction while staying grounded in truth. It’s a balance that offers the best of both worlds.
Lessons from Ted Delgrosso’s Approach
Ted Delgrosso is a storyteller who understands both sides of the coin. He often speaks about how the heart of any story—fiction or nonfiction—is emotional truth. Whether he’s writing about a real experience or crafting a fictional tale, his goal is always to connect.
One of his nonfiction essays, for example, reads like a short story: vivid scenes, deep emotion, and a clear arc. This shows us that storytelling isn’t about category—it’s about impact.
How Emotion Drives Engagement
People might forget facts, but they remember how a story made them feel. That’s why emotional resonance is key, no matter your genre. Fiction often leans on invented scenarios to stir emotions. Nonfiction relies on real experiences.
Your job as a writer is to make readers care. Whether you’re describing a harrowing escape or a made-up magical kingdom, if the heart is missing, the story won’t land.
Plot vs. Perspective: Which Rules the Story?
Fiction often starts with plot—what happens. Nonfiction begins with perspective—how it’s told. But both rely on strong storytelling.
For instance, Ted Delgrosso once noted that a story’s voice can be more powerful than its events. A simple moment, told with passion and insight, can become unforgettable.
So ask yourself: is your story driven by events, or by the way you see them?
Is One Genre More “Valuable” Than the Other?
Some people think nonfiction is more “important” because it’s true, while others see fiction as more artistic. But the truth is, both are valuable.
Fiction lets us imagine new worlds. Nonfiction helps us understand the one we live in. What matters most is how well the story is told—not whether it’s real.
What Editors and Publishers Look For
Publishers don’t just want a great idea—they want a story that fits a market. Nonfiction needs a clear angle or expertise. Fiction needs a fresh voice or compelling plot.
If you’re trying to get published, do your research. Understand where your story fits, and make sure you’re pitching the right people in the right way.
Tips for Choosing the Right Form
Still unsure? Here are some tips:
- Start by writing a few pages both ways—see what feels more natural.
- Think about your goals: Are you informing or inspiring?
- Consider what you enjoy reading—you’ll likely write in a similar style.
- Ask yourself if bending the truth helps the story—if yes, fiction might be better.
Let your gut guide you. It usually knows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t mix the two unknowingly: Readers hate being misled.
- Don’t sacrifice truth in nonfiction for drama.
- Don’t over-explain your fiction—let readers discover meaning.
- Avoid flat characters or dry facts—whether fiction or nonfiction, readers crave depth.
Stay true to the story’s spirit, and it will shine.
Conclusion
In the end, choosing between fiction and nonfiction is a deeply personal decision. There’s no right or wrong—just what’s right for you. Ask yourself: what’s the heart of my story? What do I want people to feel, know, or remember?
Whether you write like Ted Delgrosso—with one foot in truth and the other in imagination—or blaze your own trail, the key is simple: tell your story with honesty, passion, and heart.
FAQs
1. Can I switch between fiction and nonfiction as a writer?
Absolutely! Many writers, including Ted Delgrosso, explore both. It can even improve your storytelling skills.
2. Is it okay to mix elements of fiction into a true story?
Only if you clearly label it as creative nonfiction. Transparency is crucial for reader trust.
3. What’s easier to publish: fiction or nonfiction?
It depends. Nonfiction tends to sell better if you have expertise, while fiction needs a standout voice or concept.
4. How do I know if my story should be fiction?
If you find yourself wanting to change facts to improve the story, fiction might be the better route.
5. What if my nonfiction feels boring—can I spice it up?
Yes, but do it with style, not lies. Use creative structure, vivid language, and emotional truth to keep it engaging.
