This quote encapsulates a profound reflection on resilience and the cyclical nature of human history. In the face of collapse, symbolized by the fall of civilizations, the enduring spirit of humanity persists. The terse question, "So now what?" evokes a sense of uncertainty and anxiety about the future—a moment many face individually or collectively during times of crisis. The response, delivered after a contemplative silence, acknowledges a painful truth but also offers a quiet reassurance that destruction or decline does not equate to the end. Through the simple phrase "Civilisations fall. People keep going," there is a recognition of inevitability paired with hopeful perseverance. It serves as a reminder that despite societal upheaval, human beings adapt, survive, and rebuild. There is a humility in admitting the impermanence of even the greatest achievements, yet a strength in the assertion that life continues beyond those events. This perspective encourages acceptance of change as an inherent aspect of existence and underlines the importance of endurance and continuity at the individual and cultural levels. Such a message resonates not only during times of dystopian collapse often explored in science fiction like Wilson's "Robogenesis" but also in everyday personal and collective challenges. Ultimately, the quote offers both a sobering and inspiring meditation on the transient nature of civilizations against the backdrop of the tenacious human spirit.