Meaning: This quote by Joan Didion reflects on the common fascination with the idea of extraterrestrial life and the tendency to romanticize it as being superior to human life. Didion, an American writer known for her incisive observations on society and culture, offers a critical perspective on the notion of extraterrestrial life as a higher order. In this quote, she highlights the allure of this concept, particularly for children and writers, while also subtly questioning its validity.

The idea of extraterrestrial life has captured the imagination of humanity for centuries. From ancient myths and folklore to modern science fiction, the notion of beings from other worlds has been a recurring theme in human storytelling and speculation. This fascination often stems from a sense of curiosity about the unknown and a desire to explore the possibility of life beyond Earth.

One of the key elements of this quote is the notion that the fancy of extraterrestrial life being of a "higher order" than our own is comforting to both children and writers. This concept speaks to the idea of escapism and the longing for something beyond the limitations of human existence. For children, the idea of superior extraterrestrial life can provide a sense of wonder and excitement, offering a break from the mundane realities of everyday life. For writers, it offers a fertile ground for imagination and creativity, allowing them to explore themes of otherness, transcendence, and the unknown.

Furthermore, Didion's mention of "many writers" suggests that the romanticization of extraterrestrial life as superior is a recurring motif in literature. Indeed, countless works of science fiction and speculative fiction have depicted alien beings as highly advanced, intellectually superior, or possessing mystical qualities that set them apart from humanity. This portrayal often serves as a reflection of human aspirations and anxieties, projecting ideals or fears onto the concept of extraterrestrial life.

However, Didion's critical stance on this notion is also evident in the quote. By suggesting that the idea of extraterrestrial life as superior soothes many writers, she implies that it may serve as a convenient narrative device or a form of wish fulfillment rather than a genuine exploration of the unknown. This perspective challenges the tendency to idealize extraterrestrial life without critically examining the complexities and implications of such a concept.

In the broader context of Didion's work, this quote aligns with her overall approach to cultural and societal phenomena. Known for her keen insight and unflinching analysis, Didion often scrutinizes commonly held beliefs and attitudes, uncovering the underlying motivations and implications. In the case of the fascination with extraterrestrial life, her scrutiny prompts us to consider the psychological and cultural dynamics at play in our collective imagination.

In conclusion, Joan Didion's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the allure of extraterrestrial life and the tendency to idealize it as superior to human life. By highlighting its appeal to children and writers, she invites us to consider the underlying motivations and implications of this fascination. Ultimately, her perspective challenges us to critically examine our cultural narratives and the ways in which we project our desires and fears onto the unknown.