Meaning: The quote by Stanley Schmidt provides an interesting insight into human behavior and the cyclical nature of trends and interests. It suggests that when something is not prevalent for a period of time and then suddenly reappears, it captures people's attention and prompts them to seek out similar instances of that something. However, this heightened interest is temporary, and people eventually lose interest once again. This quote highlights the fickle nature of human attention and the tendency to gravitate towards novelty before eventually moving on.

The concept described in the quote can be related to various aspects of human behavior and societal trends. For instance, in the realm of popular culture, certain trends or fads often experience periods of obscurity before resurfacing and captivating audiences once again. This could be seen in the resurgence of fashion styles, music genres, or even nostalgic entertainment formats. When a particular style or genre makes a comeback after being out of the spotlight for some time, it tends to garner significant attention and inspires individuals to seek out similar instances of that trend. However, as new trends emerge or the initial excitement wanes, the interest in the revived trend diminishes once more.

Furthermore, the quote's observation about the cyclical nature of interest can also be applied to technological advancements. Innovations that were once groundbreaking and captured widespread attention may fade into the background as newer technologies emerge. However, when a concept or technology from the past is revisited and reintroduced, it often sparks renewed interest and leads to a search for comparable innovations. This phenomenon reflects the pattern of human behavior in embracing the familiar and seeking out variations or updates of previously popular ideas.

In a broader societal context, the quote's sentiment can be linked to the cyclical nature of historical and cultural movements. Throughout history, certain ideologies, artistic movements, or societal values have experienced periods of prominence, decline, and resurgence. The quote captures the essence of this cycle, illustrating how human interest ebbs and flows, leading to the rediscovery and eventual waning of particular ideas or movements.

Moreover, the quote by Stanley Schmidt also alludes to the concept of novelty and its impact on human curiosity and attention. The human tendency to seek out and explore new and intriguing experiences is a fundamental aspect of our nature. When something novel or unexpected emerges, it often captivates our interest and prompts us to actively pursue similar experiences. This inclination towards novelty can be observed in various aspects of human behavior, from consumer trends to cultural preferences.

In conclusion, Stanley Schmidt's quote provides a thought-provoking reflection on the cyclical nature of human interest and the pursuit of novelty. It sheds light on the temporary captivation that occurs when something previously obscure reappears, prompting individuals to seek out similar instances before the cycle repeats. This observation resonates with various aspects of human behavior, societal trends, and cultural phenomena, offering valuable insights into the transient nature of human attention and the enduring allure of novelty.