Meaning: Dino Buzzati, an Italian novelist, made a thought-provoking statement when he said, "Fantasy should be as close as possible to journalism." This quote encapsulates a deep understanding of the power and potential of fantasy literature, as well as the responsibilities that come with creating and consuming it. In essence, Buzzati is suggesting that fantasy should strive to be rooted in reality, to capture the essence of truth and human experience, much like journalism does. This quote invites us to explore the relationship between fantasy and reality, and the ways in which the two can intersect and inform one another.

At first glance, the idea of fantasy being akin to journalism may seem contradictory. After all, journalism is associated with factual reporting and truth-seeking, while fantasy is often associated with imaginative and fantastical elements. However, when we delve deeper into Buzzati's statement, we can uncover a deeper meaning. In essence, Buzzati is advocating for a kind of fantasy that is grounded in the human experience, that reflects the complexities of the real world, and that delves into universal truths and emotions. This kind of fantasy, although fantastical in nature, can serve as a mirror to our own reality, allowing us to explore and understand our world in new and meaningful ways.

One way to interpret Buzzati's quote is to consider the role of truth and authenticity in fantasy literature. While fantasy may be filled with magical creatures, otherworldly landscapes, and fantastical events, the emotional core of these stories often reflects universal human experiences. By grounding fantasy in the emotional truths of the human condition, authors can create narratives that resonate deeply with readers, allowing them to find meaning and relevance in the fantastical elements of the story. In this sense, fantasy can serve as a form of emotional journalism, shedding light on the complexities of the human experience in a way that traditional journalism may not be able to.

Additionally, Buzzati's quote encourages us to consider the power of fantasy as a tool for understanding and interpreting the world around us. Just as journalism seeks to inform and educate, fantasy literature has the potential to offer unique perspectives on real-world issues and societal dynamics. By using fantastical elements to explore complex themes such as power, morality, and identity, fantasy can provide a lens through which readers can gain new insights into their own lives and the world at large. In this way, fantasy can be seen as a form of journalism that operates on an emotional and imaginative level, offering valuable commentary and critique on the human experience.

Furthermore, Buzzati's quote challenges us to reconsider the boundaries between reality and fantasy. By advocating for fantasy that is as close as possible to journalism, Buzzati is inviting us to blur the lines between the two, recognizing that fantasy can offer a form of truth and understanding that is distinct from but equally valuable to that offered by journalism. In doing so, he highlights the potential for fantasy literature to expand our understanding of reality, to challenge our preconceived notions, and to offer new ways of seeing and interpreting the world.

In conclusion, Dino Buzzati's quote, "Fantasy should be as close as possible to journalism," offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature and potential of fantasy literature. By advocating for a kind of fantasy that is grounded in emotional truth, that offers unique insights into the human experience, and that challenges our understanding of reality, Buzzati invites us to reconsider the ways in which fantasy can inform and enrich our lives. This quote serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling, the importance of emotional truth, and the ways in which fantasy literature can offer valuable commentary on the world around us. It encourages us to approach fantasy not as mere escapism, but as a form of emotional journalism that has the potential to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit.