Skip to content

I startled it. No, I shocked it profoundly—and it…

“I startled it. No, I shocked it profoundly—and it transmitted to me the full impact of that shock. Its multisensory illusions felt more real than things that actually happened, and this was worse than an illusion. This was a sudden, swift cycling of its own intense surprise and fear. From me to it…” quote by Octavia E. Butler
Download Open image
““I startled it. No, I shocked it profoundly—and it transmitted to me the full impact of that shock. Its multisensory illusions felt more real than things that actually happened, and this was worse than an illusion. This was a sudden, swift cycling of its own intense surprise and fear. From me to it to me. Closed loop. I””

Octavia E. Butler

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Describes an intense, reciprocal shock that feels more real than actual events, creating a closed loop of fear.

In simple terms: A powerful, looping shock feels more real than reality.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and break cycles of overwhelming fear.

Themes

fear illusion feedback loop

Mood

intense disturbing

Type

psychological literary

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • intense artistic experiences
  • high‑stress occupations
  • virtual reality training

Key Concepts

psychology trauma sensory perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers your fear loops?
  • How can you interrupt the feedback cycle?
A Different Perspective

Such loops can amplify anxiety, making recovery harder.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Octavia E. Butler

Explore all 131 Octavia E. Butler quotes

More Fear quotes

Browse all 35,569 Fear quotes