“Because, if one is writing novels today, fieldwork is more and more a lost art. Take all the time you need, sit down with people, and dig deep. Galaxies may be infinitesimal, but no detail is too small.”
— Neil Gaiman
Simplified Meaning:
Nowadays, writing novels involves less direct interaction with people and experiences. Instead of just relying on imagination or second-hand information, it's important to take your time to meet and talk with different people. Spend time understanding their stories and emotions deeply. Even the tiniest details can make a big difference in your writing, like tiny stars in a vast galaxy coming together to form a beautiful picture. For example, if you're writing about a chef, actually visiting a kitchen and observing how they work, asking them about their favorite dishes, and learning their struggles will provide rich, authentic details that will make your story come alive. By diving into real-life experiences, your writing will be much more vivid and genuine.