Sometimes, all you have to do is tell people the truth. They won't believe you. After that, they'll leave you alone

Sometimes, all you have to do is tell people the truth. They won't believe you. After that, they'll leave you alone

Benjamin Alire Saenz is a renowned author known for his powerful storytelling and ability to capture the complexities of human emotions. In his works, he often delves into themes of identity, family, and the search for truth. The quote, “Sometimes, all you have to do is tell people the truth. They won't believe you. After that, they'll leave you alone,” encapsulates the essence of Saenz’s writing and the struggles his characters face in navigating their own truths.

In many of Saenz’s works, characters are forced to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and their relationships with others. These truths often lead to conflict and misunderstanding, as others may not be ready or willing to accept the reality of the situation. The quote highlights the idea that sometimes, honesty can be a double-edged sword. While telling the truth may be liberating for the individual, it can also lead to isolation and rejection from those who are not ready to face the truth themselves.

One of Saenz’s most well-known works, “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe,” explores the journey of two teenage boys as they navigate their identities and relationships with their families. The protagonist, Aristotle, struggles with his own truth and the expectations placed upon him by his family and society. As he begins to uncover his own feelings and desires, he is met with resistance and disbelief from those around him. The quote perfectly encapsulates the internal conflict Aristotle faces as he grapples with his truth and the reactions of those he cares about.