Meaning: The quote by Eugene O'Neill, the renowned American playwright, encapsulates the human tendency to seek a sense of enchantment and tranquility in a world that often feels tumultuous and challenging. O'Neill's words convey a poignant reflection on the pervasive human desire for an idyllic existence, one that resembles the enchanting realms found in fairy tales. This profound sentiment touches upon the universal human yearning for a utopian haven, where peace, harmony, and fulfillment reign supreme.

The notion of being "obsessed by a fairy tale" suggests a deep preoccupation with an idealized narrative, one that captivates the imagination and fuels aspirations. Fairy tales, with their themes of magic, heroism, and happily-ever-afters, have long served as allegories for the human quest for meaning and fulfillment. O'Neill's use of "obsessed" implies a consuming fixation, hinting at the extent to which individuals invest their hopes and energies in pursuit of an elusive, dreamlike reality.

The quest for a "magic door" and a "lost kingdom of peace" symbolizes the pursuit of an otherworldly sanctuary, a mystical escape from the trials and tribulations of everyday life. The "magic door" represents a portal to a realm where wishes are granted, where adversity is vanquished, and where the extraordinary becomes ordinary. Meanwhile, the "lost kingdom of peace" evokes a vision of a tranquil, paradisiacal domain that has slipped from humanity's grasp, yet remains fervently sought after.

In the context of O'Neill's own life and work, this quote may also allude to the creative impulse and the artist's yearning to conjure worlds of wonder and solace through their craft. As a dramatist, O'Neill was intimately familiar with the power of storytelling to transport audiences to realms of imagination and emotion, offering them respite from the harsh truths of reality. His plays often delved into the complexities of the human experience, grappling with themes of longing, disillusionment, and the eternal search for meaning.

Moreover, O'Neill's personal struggles and introspections, including his battles with depression and alcoholism, may have imbued his writing with a profound sensitivity to the human longing for transcendence and serenity. Through his characters and narratives, O'Neill plumbed the depths of human desire and delusion, exposing the yearning for an elusive "kingdom of peace" that persists despite the harsh realities of existence.

In the broader scope of human experience, O'Neill's quote resonates as a poignant commentary on the enduring human pursuit of happiness and fulfillment. It speaks to the universal inclination to seek out moments of enchantment and reprieve from the trials and tribulations of life, as well as the persistent belief in the possibility of discovering a sanctuary of tranquility amid the tumultuous currents of existence. The allure of the "magic door" and the "lost kingdom of peace" serves as a testament to the enduring human spirit, which continues to seek out sources of hope and wonder, even in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, Eugene O'Neill's quote captures the profound human longing for an enchanting refuge, a haven of peace and fulfillment that mirrors the idyllic realms found in fairy tales. Through his evocative words, O'Neill encapsulates the universal quest for transcendence and serenity, reflecting the enduring human yearning for a sanctuary of enchantment and reprieve. This sentiment resonates as a timeless testament to the enduring human spirit, which persists in its pursuit of magic and tranquility amidst the trials of existence.