I don't really understand why so many fantasy writers choose to focus on worlds that just seem strangely denuded. But to them, I guess it doesn't seem strange. And I guess that's their privilege. It isn't mine.
N. K. JemisinRead
Magic is the mysteries into which not everyone is so lucky, or unlucky, as to be initiated. It can be affected by belief, the whims of the unseen, harsh language. And it is not. Supposed. To make. Sense. In fact, I think it's coolest when it doesn't.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Magic represents the mysteries of life that are not accessible to everyone, and its essence often defies reason.
In this quote, N. K. Jemisin explores the concept of magic as an embodiment of life's mysteries that evade normal understanding. She suggests that magic is not just a whimsical element; it is intrinsically linked to belief and perception, emphasizing the beauty found in chaos and the unexpected. By rejecting the notion that magic should conform to rational explanations, Jemisin highlights how embracing the mysterious aspects of existence can lead to a deeper appreciation of life.
Themes
MagicMysteryBeliefUnderstandingChaos
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the importance of embracing uncertainty and beauty in art.
More from N. K. Jemisin
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Reactionary movements can't sustain themselves unless they find something new to catch and burn on.
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There's a thriving field of self-published stuff in, particularly, black fiction. I don't know that other groups of people of color have that same recourse.
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Fantasy is fantasy. It's fiction. It's not meant to be a textbook. I don't believe in letting research overwhelm the fiction. That's a danger of science fiction in particular, as opposed to fantasy. A lot of writers forget that what they're doing is supposed to be art.
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I've always believed that as an artist, as a writer, you need a lot of contact with other people to make your art good.
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