What is the effect of “notes”, in which o’brien explains the story behind “speaking of courage”? does your appreciation of the story change when you learn what parts are “true” and which are the author’s inventions?

The "Notes" is like a missing piece in a clue. It helps the reader understand the story, and it gives the perception that a reader knows Norman Bowker to a personal level. It was written after Norman died which kind of serves as a memoir of a person who has done great things but still considered himself a failure.

My appreciation of the story grew after reading the "Notes". I'm grateful for the added information and knowing what's real and what's not. The "Notes" showed a connection between the characters and the people they are based on in real life which made the story more heartfelt to the reader.