Meaning: The quote "It's good for you to see your friends arrested. It hardens you. There's no place in our New Order for sentimentalists" is a statement made by the novelist Curt Siodmak. This quote reflects a perspective that emphasizes the need for individuals to toughen up and desensitize themselves in the face of adversity and change. The mention of "our New Order" suggests a context of societal or political transformation, where sentimentality is seen as a hindrance to progress.

Curt Siodmak was a German-American novelist and screenwriter, known for his contributions to the science fiction and horror genres. He was born in 1902 and had firsthand experience with the tumultuous political and social changes of the 20th century, including the rise of Nazism in Germany and later emigration to the United States.

In order to understand the quote in its context, it's important to consider the broader historical and cultural background of the period in which Siodmak lived and wrote. The quote reflects a mindset that may have been influenced by the challenging and often brutal realities of the time, where individuals were forced to adapt to rapidly shifting social and political landscapes.

The idea that witnessing the arrest of friends can be beneficial, as it "hardens" individuals, suggests a belief in the necessity of resilience and emotional toughness in the face of adversity. This sentiment is not uncommon in contexts where there is significant upheaval or where authoritarian regimes seek to suppress dissent and enforce conformity. The emphasis on the "New Order" further suggests a context of radical change and the establishment of a new societal or political structure, where traditional values and emotions are viewed as impediments to progress.

Siodmak's statement may also be interpreted in the context of the broader themes present in his works. As a writer in the science fiction and horror genres, he often explored themes of societal transformation, the impact of technology, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of existential threats. In this light, the quote can be seen as a reflection of the themes and concerns that permeated Siodmak's body of work.

It's important to note that the quote may be viewed differently in today's context, where emphasis is often placed on empathy, emotional intelligence, and the value of human connection. The idea of "hardening" oneself in response to the arrest of friends may be seen as troubling and at odds with contemporary values that prioritize compassion and solidarity.

In conclusion, the quote by Curt Siodmak reflects a perspective that emphasizes the need for emotional resilience and desensitization in the face of societal transformation and upheaval. It is a product of its time, shaped by the historical and cultural context in which Siodmak lived and wrote. While the sentiment expressed in the quote may be viewed critically in today's context, it offers insight into the mindset of individuals grappling with the challenges of a rapidly changing world.