Meaning: The quote by Margaret Mahy, a renowned author of children's and young adult literature, offers insight into the creation of characters in fiction. Mahy suggests that while characters may be imaginary, they are not solely the products of her imagination. She acknowledges that certain aspects of the characters are influenced by her own experiences with a wide variety of people.

In this quote, Mahy highlights the complex process of character development in literature. Authors often draw inspiration from real-life individuals, experiences, and observations when creating their characters. While the characters themselves may be fictional, the emotions, traits, and behaviors they embody are often rooted in the author's understanding of human nature.

Margaret Mahy's statement sheds light on the multifaceted nature of character creation, emphasizing the interplay between imagination and real-life influences. As an author, Mahy likely drew from her interactions with diverse individuals, as well as her own personal experiences, to imbue her characters with depth and authenticity.

Mahy's acknowledgment that certain aspects of her characters relate to her own experiences underscores the idea that writers often infuse their creations with elements of their own lives. By drawing from her encounters with a wide variety of people, Mahy was able to enrich her characters with a sense of realism and relatability, allowing readers to connect with them on a deeper level.

This quote also speaks to the universal nature of storytelling. While Mahy's characters may have originated in her imagination, the fact that they bear traces of her real-life experiences suggests that they resonate with readers because they reflect aspects of the human condition that are recognizable and familiar.

Furthermore, Mahy's words highlight the empathy and understanding that authors bring to their craft. By drawing from her encounters with diverse individuals, Mahy was able to create characters that embody a broad spectrum of emotions, motivations, and experiences. In doing so, she demonstrated her ability to weave rich, multidimensional characters that resonate with readers from all walks of life.

Overall, Margaret Mahy's quote offers a glimpse into the intricate process of character development in literature. It underscores the dynamic interplay between imagination and real-life experiences, and the ways in which authors draw from the world around them to breathe life into their fictional creations. Through her insightful words, Mahy invites readers to appreciate the depth and complexity of characters in fiction, and the ways in which they reflect the myriad facets of human existence.