without wax

The phrase, sine cera (pronounced “sin-ah care-ah”) is Latin for “without wax.” The story goes that dishonest or untalented sculptors in ancient Rome or Greece covered flaws in marble and pottery with wax. To demonstrate a quality product, honest sculptors labeled their creations “sine cera”—indicating a piece with flaws left uncovered. The term, sine cera, became synonymous with such honest presentation, that it eventually became the root of the word “sincere.”

It’s a fantastic story. And also a false one. More likely, the word “sincere” is derived from the Latin sincerus, meaning “pure.” If that isn’t enough, the Oxford English Dictionary says “there is no probability” in the “without wax” story being true.

The purpose of this anthology is to provide a public space for people that might otherwise not be heard. We chose sine cera to demonstrate the sincerity of their words and honestly present them. And now we find this meaning to be a myth. But what better way to bridge social, economic and educational backgrounds? Myths, such as the one created here, present universal meaning through their perception and misperceptions, through narrative and symbolism. In some ways, myth can bring us closer to truth.