The quote from Max Brooks' "World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War" suggests that individuals often prefer confronting tangible challenges over wrestling with their own internal doubts and fears. It reflects a common belief that reality, even in its harshness, can be more manageable than the intangible struggles we create in our minds. The notion of a "real enemy" presents a clarity that imagined fears lack, indicating that the battle against a visible threat feels more tangible and straightforward.

This perspective highlights a human inclination to seek out understanding and resolution in adversarial situations. When faced with a clear opponent, there is an opportunity to strategize, fight back, and reclaim agency. In contrast, personal fears can be insidious and paralyzing, as they often lack definition and can grow disproportionately in one’s mind. Brooks' quote thus encourages a confrontation with external challenges as a way to overcome the internal darkness of fear.