fictionalise

Fictionalise is a verb that describes the act of turning real events, people, or situations into a fictional narrative. This process involves taking elements from reality and adapting them for a story, often by altering details, creating composite characters, or inventing dialogue and plot points. The purpose of fictionalising can vary; it may be to protect the privacy of individuals, to enhance dramatic impact, or to explore themes and ideas through a creative lens.

When fictionalising, a writer might draw inspiration from a historical event, a personal experience, or a news report. The core factual basis is then reshaped to serve the needs of the story. This can involve changing names, locations, or the sequence of events. While the original source material provides a foundation, the resulting work is no longer a factual account but a piece of fiction. This distinction is important, as fictionalised accounts do not aim for strict historical accuracy.

The term is often used in relation to biographical works, journalism, and historical fiction. For instance, a film based on a true story might be described as fictionalised if it takes liberties with the facts for dramatic purposes. Similarly, a novel drawing on a historical period might fictionalise specific characters or incidents to create a more engaging narrative. The key characteristic is the transformation of reality into a created, imaginative work.