Meaning: The quote by Margaret Mahy beautifully captures the immersive nature of storytelling and the writer's need to fully engage with the characters and the world they are creating. This sentiment is echoed by many authors who have described the intense and sometimes transformative experience of writing fiction. In this quote, Mahy suggests that there are moments when the boundaries between the writer's own life and the fictional world they are creating blur, allowing the story to consume them entirely.

For many writers, the process of creating a narrative involves more than simply putting words on a page; it often requires a deep emotional and imaginative investment in the characters and their experiences. This level of engagement can lead to a sense of detachment from the writer's own reality as they immerse themselves in the lives of their characters. In this state of creative immersion, the writer is able to inhabit the world of the story, experiencing its joys, sorrows, and conflicts as if they were their own.

Mahy's assertion that a writer often needs space and time to fully inhabit the world of their characters speaks to the need for creative solitude and mental freedom. In order to fully embrace the lives of their characters, writers often require periods of uninterrupted focus and reflection. This can manifest as dedicated writing time, moments of daydreaming and contemplation, or even physical distance from the demands of everyday life. By creating this space, writers are able to abandon the constraints of ordinary existence and fully enter the realm of their imagination.

The concept of "living" with the characters highlights the depth of connection that writers often develop with their fictional creations. As they spend time with their characters, writers come to understand their motivations, fears, and desires, allowing for a more authentic portrayal of their lives within the narrative. This intimate understanding of the characters enables writers to infuse their stories with depth and complexity, creating a sense of realism that resonates with readers.

Mahy's quote also suggests that the act of storytelling can be a deeply personal and transformative experience for the writer. By immersing themselves in the lives of their characters, writers may find that their own perspectives and emotions are influenced and enriched by the imaginative journey they undertake. This process of emotional and psychological absorption can lead to a profound connection between the writer and the story, resulting in a more authentic and compelling narrative.

In conclusion, Margaret Mahy's quote eloquently captures the immersive and transformative nature of storytelling for the writer. By entering the world of the characters and allowing the story to take them over, writers are able to create narratives that are rich, authentic, and deeply resonant. This process requires space, time, and a willingness to let go of ordinary life in order to fully embrace the lives of the characters. Ultimately, the act of "living" with the characters allows writers to create stories that are not only compelling but also deeply meaningful, both for themselves and for their readers.