In "The Ghost Brigades," John Scalzi humorously addresses the misconception that writing a sequel is a simple task once the universe is established. He emphasizes that the process of crafting a follow-up story is far more complex than many assume, despite the existing world and concepts. The quote captures the challenge writers face, as they must delve deeper into their characters, themes, and plots while maintaining continuity and freshness.

Scalzi's words reflect the common struggles in storytelling, highlighting that creating a sequel involves not just expanding on previous narratives, but also ensuring that the story resonates with new and returning readers. It's a reminder that even seasoned authors must navigate the intricacies of their fictional worlds with care and creativity, dispelling the myth that familiarity makes the writing process any less daunting.