“Truth is such a rare thing, it is delightful to tell it.” Emily Dickenson

          The truth is relative. Unfortunately, this makes its very definition void. Can we ever be aware of an “absolute truth” when it varies from person to person depending on their individual experiences and perspectives? Surely, holding an honest opinion on something is the closest we can get to expressing our versions of reality. Either that, or every single one of us are liars. 

          Metaphysics aside, it is no myth that the truth is much easier to write down than to say out aloud. This is perhaps why so many people keep diaries throughout their lifetimes. However, very rarely are diaries fantastical enough to make good reading material for an outsider. In the rare case that they are - something very, very bad has happened to the author.
          Writing is often described as a form of escapism, but for Cheever, the consequences of writing were something that had to be escaped. He took solace in alcohol to which he eventually became addicted. It is no surprise then that themes related to liquor can be found in his stories, including “Reunion” and “O’ Youth and Beauty”. Although we may try, it is near impossible to write something without leaving a lingering sense of ourselves in it.  In Cheever's case, it's the lingering stench of gin. So, regardless of whether truth has any place in writing or not, it certainly does wriggle its way in.