A Roman à clef story is a blend between fiction and non-fiction, as they are usually retellings of real occurrences, but some details, names or events will be changed. This gives an author creative license to either add a little bit of additional flair or mask embarrassing details, depending on where they take the story.
Packaged as fictitious, keen-eyes readers will begin to unravel the secret meaning of Roman à clef stories, tittering over their afternoon teas at an unflattering portrayal of the king – whilst he is completely unaware that he has been depicted as a buffoon in the latest royal bulletin, for example. Let’s learn more…
History of Roman à clef stories
They have been widely written for centuries, thought to have arisen in the seventeenth century by Madeleine de Scudéry who wanted to thinly disguise her political commentary and coverage of public figures. They can take the form of satire similar to their original usage, or can even be used by authors to reimagine events favourably.
What is a Roman à clef tale?
Its French name is translated to ‘story with a key’ as usually the aspect of unlocking the relationship between the text and its real-life counterparts will need to be revealed, like unlocking a treasure chest. Historically, the author would either make some bold statements which can be quickly associated with the real identities of the persons involved, or even heavily imply the truth through clever literary devices.
Key features of Roman à clef writing
Roman à clef stories are often written as a way to creatively revisit previous events that are well-suited for a novel, or to even get away with embellishing small details, all for the purpose of the plot, of course! They also allow, as alluded to earlier, for writers to portray unflattering events or people with immunity – depending on how well they mask identifying details, that is!
Examples of Roman à clef in literature
Some good literature examples of the Roman à clef include Animal Farm by George Orwell, a critique of Stalinism thinly veiled under the guise of farmyard animals, Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar which was initially published under a pseudonym and is a deeply personal tale of mental illness, and also The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger, a composite of experiences by the author and friends during their previous employment.
Well, it’s not about me…
That was more details about the Roman à clef – why you’d write in this style, some popular examples and the other identifying information. The main aim is to toe the line carefully – including excruciating details but without having them backfire and land you in a lot of libel trouble!
Impish Fen 
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