This is a work of fiction. Still, given an infinite number of possible worlds, it must be true on one of them. And if a story set in an infinite number of possible worlds is true in one of them, then it must be true in all of them. So maybe, it's not as fictional as we think.
This quote explores the intriguing concept that the boundaries between fiction and reality can become blurred when considering the idea of multiple possible worlds. It suggests that what we deem fictional might hold some truth in alternate realities, raising philosophical questions about the nature of truth and existence. The assertion that a story set within an infinite multiverse could be true in one of these worlds, and consequently in all, challenges our understanding of fiction as mere imagination and hints at a deeper interconnectedness of all possible states. This perspective invites us to reflect on the assumptions we make about reality, fiction, and the limits of our perception. It echoes themes from modal realism and multiverse theories in philosophy and science, prompting us to consider whether stories are just arbitrary constructs or if they tap into some universal truths that transcend our familiar experience. Such musings push us to think about the role of storytelling in shaping our perception of reality, and whether what is fictional in our world might be factual elsewhere. The quote enriches our appreciation for the boundless potential of imagination, suggesting that fiction may serve as a portal to understanding infinite possibilities. Overall, it encourages an open-minded exploration of the idea that truth and fiction may be more intertwined than we usually assume, especially when considering the infinite expanse of possible worlds.
---Neil Gaiman, as reflected in his works, often blurs the lines between reality and fiction, inviting us to question the nature of existence and storytelling. This quote exemplifies that worldview, demonstrating how stories can be more than mere entertainment—they can be gateways to understanding the infinite complexity of the universe.