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Arise Quote by L. Sprague de Camp

“Therefore, no matter how the world makes out in the next few centuries, a large class of readers at least will not be too surprised at anything. They will have been through it all before in fictional form, and will not be too paralyzed with astonishment to try to cope with contingencies as they…” quote by L. Sprague de Camp
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“Therefore, no matter how the world makes out in the next few centuries, a large class of readers at least will not be too surprised at anything. They will have been through it all before in fictional form, and will not be too paralyzed with astonishment to try to cope with contingencies as they arise.”

L. Sprague de Camp

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Great Science Fiction Revolt, 1955

Readers accustomed to speculative fiction will not be shocked by future events because they have already imagined similar scenarios.

In simple terms: Fiction prepares us for real futures.

Key Takeaway

Use imagination to anticipate change.

Themes

future imagination preparedness

Mood

thoughtful anticipatory

Type

speculative practical

When to use this quote

  • technology adoption
  • policy planning
  • personal resilience

Key Concepts

science fiction cognitive adaptation cultural memory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What scenarios have you imagined that later occurred?
  • How can we balance imagination with realism?
A Different Perspective

Fiction may also create unrealistic expectations.

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