Meaning: This quote by John Sladek, an American science fiction author, reflects on his childhood experiences and the impact of not having access to certain modern amenities like a phone or a pool hall. The quote reveals how Sladek found solace and entertainment in the absence of these typical outlets for socializing and leisure activities. His mention of the public library and storytelling highlights the value he found in books and imagination, despite lacking the more common forms of recreation.

Sladek's observation about not having a phone during his childhood resonates with the era in which he grew up. In the mid-20th century, not every household had a telephone, especially in rural or less affluent areas. This lack of connectivity meant that children had to find alternative ways to entertain themselves and communicate with others. For Sladek, being unable to rely on a phone meant that he had to seek out different means of social interaction and entertainment.

The reference to being too shy to "smash any public phones" is an interesting addition to the quote. It suggests that Sladek may have felt a sense of frustration or rebellion due to his lack of access to a personal phone. The mention of shyness also hints at the challenges he may have faced in reaching out to others or finding ways to connect with peers in a time when phone communication was becoming increasingly common.

Furthermore, the absence of a pool hall in Sladek's town speaks to the limitations of recreational facilities in certain areas. Pool halls were often social hubs for young people, providing a space for leisure activities and socializing. The fact that Sladek's town did not have one meant that he had to seek out alternative locations for spending his time.

The public library emerges as a significant setting in Sladek's childhood, where he found refuge and stimulation. This reflects the enduring importance of libraries as community spaces that offer access to knowledge, literature, and a quiet environment for contemplation and learning. In the absence of other popular hangout spots, the library became a place where Sladek could engage with his imagination and immerse himself in stories and ideas.

The act of telling himself stories underscores the power of imagination and creativity in filling the void left by the absence of certain social and recreational amenities. It also speaks to the resilience and resourcefulness of children in finding ways to entertain themselves, even in circumstances where traditional forms of entertainment may be lacking.

Overall, John Sladek's quote provides a glimpse into the experiences of growing up without certain modern conveniences and the ways in which he navigated these limitations. It also offers a poignant reminder of the enduring value of storytelling, imagination, and community spaces like the public library, which can provide solace and inspiration in the absence of other forms of entertainment and social interaction.