Words

Terry Pratchett's The Truth examines the nature of written communications. Literacy in the medieval society of Ankh-Morpork is largely limited to the upper class and is not highly regarded by its members. Even those completing an education look forward to doing little more with the written medium than signing their names. By virtue of their strenuous physical training they must concentrate not to shatter the pens that they grip. Protagonist William de Worde is an exception. He enjoys reading and writing and defies his father's prohibition against becoming a scribe. Lord de Worde consider this just one step up from teacher. William leaves home and in Ankh-Morpork produces a monthly one-page news sheet for five rich patrons at an exorbitant rate and form letters for recent immigrants to boast of their successful new lives. This suffices to keep him alive.

William's life changes when a cart runs him...