In "The End of All Things" by John Scalzi, a character reflects on their experiences with paranoia. They argue that their feeling of being watched or threatened isn't simply a result of their own mindset, but rather a response to the actions and events occurring around them. The universe seems to validate their fears, suggesting that their concerns may be more rational than they initially seem.

This perspective highlights the idea that sometimes, paranoia can stem from real threats in one's environment. Instead of dismissing paranoid thoughts as unfounded, the character suggests that understanding the reasons behind such feelings can provide deeper insight into the broader and often unpredictable nature of existence.