Attempting to write fiction now would be disrespectful. The fact of what has happened and is happening to Israel—and by extension, to Jews across the globe—is far more horrifying and compelling than anyone could or should imagine. There have been novels depicting versions of the Holocaust, which though vivid enough to draw the reader in, are less impactful than actual testimony and film footage. It is the importance of honesty—of not muddying the facts with conjured scenes that matters to me. Especially now.
Maybe I am saying—yes—I am saying that creating a story would mean turning my back on those in anguish at this moment. The hostages, the families, the people of Israel, the Jews of the world. For now, I have abandoned my attempts at writing fiction.
I will stay with what I know. What I know each day. What I think about, pray for, wish for. What I want for Israel, for Jewish people everywhere. Peace, security, faith and truth. And then, I want the truth to win the war of words.
Anna Gotlieb is the author of four books: “Between the Lines,” “In Other Words,” “Full Circle” and “Pinkey’s.” She spends a few minutes each day collecting her thoughts. Sometimes she shares them with others.
