"We need fantasy to survive because reality is too difficult"

The idea here is pretty straightforward: sometimes, reality can be tough to handle, so we create fantasies or let our imaginations run wild to help us get through the rough patches. It’s about finding solace in dreams and stories when the real world feels too heavy.

Now, think about the context. This idea isn't new. People have been using stories, myths, and fantasies to cope with life's harshness for centuries. During the Great Depression, for instance, people flocked to the movies. Why? Life was hard. Jobs were scarce, money was tight, and the future looked bleak. But in the movie theaters, they could escape for a few hours—watching glamorous lives, heroic deeds, and happy endings. It gave them a break from their worries and sometimes even the hope and strength to keep going.

Take J.K. Rowling's *Harry Potter* series as a modern example. A lot of kids—and adults—found refuge in the magical world of Hogwarts. For some, school might have been a tough place, or maybe they had family problems. But diving into a world where a young wizard faces challenges and triumphs could be comforting and inspiring. It’s a clear demonstration of how fantasy can provide a much-needed escape, allowing people to recharge and face their real-life issues with a renewed sense of hope.

So, how can you apply this to your own life? Well, don't shy away from indulging in a good book, movie, or even daydream. Allow yourself that break from reality. If you’re a creative type, write your own stories or draw your own comics. Use your imagination as a tool to process your emotions and gain a different perspective on your problems. And it’s not just about escape—sometimes through these stories, we can find solutions or inspiration for our real-world challenges.

Imagine you're stuck in a job that you don't love. Every day feels like a grind, and the stress is wearing you down. Instead of just pushing through, give yourself permission to escape into a fantasy world for a little while. Maybe it's through reading a thrilling novel on your lunch breaks or getting lost in a fantasy TV series in the evenings. This escape can give you a mental break, making your day-to-day reality a bit more bearable. And who knows? That time away might spark new ideas or give you the clarity you need to change your situation.

Think back to when you were a kid. Remember playing pretend? Maybe you were a pirate searching for treasure or a space explorer on a distant planet. Those games of make-believe weren't just play—they were a way to experiment with different roles, solve problems, and, yes, escape from the mundane. As adults, we can still benefit from this kind of imaginative play. It’s not childish; it’s human.

So next time you feel overwhelmed by reality, don’t feel guilty for diving into a fantasy world. It’s not an avoidance tactic—it’s a survival strategy. Whether it’s through books, movies, art, or just daydreaming, let your imagination be a refuge and a source of strength. After all, a little fantasy can make the real world a lot more manageable.