In the final chapter of my book I am answering some FAQ's. In one of my responses, I want to write about an incident that took place a few miles from my home shortly after I returned. A bicyclist was killed by a car, and her family painter her bike white and chained to the street light post at the corner where she was hit. They also hung a little sign on the bike - God Bless You, Sarah Howard.
Anyway, I didn't know Sarah, but the little tribute to her really hit me in a lot of ways and I want to make reference to it. Should I put her real name in there or should I make up a name? On the one hand, I would like someone be able to verify that "fact" if they wanted (can't imagine anyone would want to but....) On the other hand, it kind of feels like an invasion of their privacy - even though they are the ones who put the bike and sign out there in the first place. What do you think?
Anyway, I didn't know Sarah, but the little tribute to her really hit me in a lot of ways and I want to make reference to it. Should I put her real name in there or should I make up a name? On the one hand, I would like someone be able to verify that "fact" if they wanted (can't imagine anyone would want to but....) On the other hand, it kind of feels like an invasion of their privacy - even though they are the ones who put the bike and sign out there in the first place. What do you think?
