Dream Quote by George R.R. Martin
““Reality is the strip malls of Burbank, the smokestacks of Cleveland, a parking garage in Newark. Fantasy is the towers of Minas Tirith, the ancient stones of Gormenghast, the halls of Camelot. Fantasy flies on the wings of Icarus, reality on Southwest Airlines. Why do our dreams become so much smaller when they finally come true? We read fantasy to find the colors again, I think. To taste strong spices and hear the songs the sirens sang. There is something old and true in fantasy that speaks to something deep within us, to the child who dreamt that one day he would hunt the forests of the night, and feast beneath the hollow hills, and find a love to last forever somewhere south of Oz and north of Shangri-La. They can keep their heaven. When I die, I'd sooner go to Middle Earth..””
About This Quote
Source Novel: A Song of Ice and Fire series, 1996‑present
Fantasy offers grand, timeless visions that contrast with mundane reality, reminding us why we seek wonder.
In simple terms: Fantasy gives wonder; reality feels ordinary.
Key Takeaway
Seek wonder, cherish imagination.
Themes
imagination
wonder
escape
dreams
reality
fantasy
Mood
nostalgic
inspired
contemplative
Type
literary
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- reading fiction
- creative writing
- worldbuilding
- personal reflection
- artistic inspiration
Key Concepts
Mythic archetypes
psychology of longing
cultural symbolism
Questions to Reflect On
- What does fantasy reveal about your deepest hopes?
- How can you bring a sense of wonder into daily life?
A Different Perspective
Fantasy may idealize and oversimplify complex truths.
