Fiction is based on reality unless you're a fairy-tale artist, you have to get your knowledge of life from somewhere. You have to know the material you're writing about before you alter it.

Summary

This quote highlights the importance of grounding fiction in reality. It suggests that even if the writer is envisioning fantastical or fictional worlds, they still need to draw from their understanding of real life. The quote emphasizes the need to have a deep knowledge and understanding of the subject matter that inspires the story. By knowing and grasping the material, the writer can effectively manipulate and alter it to fit the narrative but must first have a solid foundation to build upon.

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