Will Grayson, Will Grayson Theme of Truth

Truth isn't always easy, but it's pretty much always important (eventually). In Will Grayson, Will Grayson, both Will Graysons come to figure out just how important it is to be honest with the people they love. While Will finally admits his true feelings to Jane and Tiny, will learns some hard truths about the kind of person who could make him happy. For both boys, though, it comes down to figuring out whether they would rather live lies or be really and authentically who they are, no matter the cost. We know which side of the Will Graysons we prefer.

Questions About Truth

  1. Why do you think it's so hard for Will to admit how he really feels about Jane and Tiny? Why is living the lie easier? Is living the lie easier?
  2. Do you think that will and Isaac had a good relationship even though it was based on a lie? Would it have been better if the truth never came out? Explain your reasoning and back it up with evidence from the text.
  3. How do you think love and truth are tied together? Do you need both things to have a good relationship? Why or why not? Back that answer up with examples from the book.

Chew on This

Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.

Maura's lie about Isaac is pretty cruel, but it also comes from a place of truth. She is honest about how she feels about will… just in a sneaky and not-so-nice way.

Will uses his own cynicism to hide the truth about how he really feels—from himself.