Meaning: The quote by Greg Egan touches upon the intersection of popular science and science fiction (SF) writing. It highlights the tendency for popular science to influence the creative direction of SF writers, sometimes leading them astray. This quote sheds light on the complex relationship between scientific advancements, popular culture, and the creative imagination of SF writers.

In the realm of popular science, there is a constant influx of new ideas, theories, and discoveries. These often capture the public's imagination and are widely discussed and disseminated through various media channels. As a result, these scientific trends can become fashionable, attracting attention and influencing not only the public, but also creative individuals such as SF writers. The allure of these new developments can be strong, leading writers to incorporate them into their narratives, sometimes without fully understanding the scientific principles behind them.

Egan's acknowledgment of being led astray himself reflects the challenges faced by SF writers when navigating the ever-evolving landscape of scientific knowledge. As they strive to create compelling and imaginative stories, they may be tempted to incorporate trendy scientific concepts without fully comprehending their implications or limitations. This can result in narratives that are more influenced by popular science trends than grounded in sound scientific understanding.

Furthermore, the quote points to the reciprocal nature of this relationship. Just as popular science can influence SF writers, the imaginative works of SF writers can, in turn, contribute to the popularization and dissemination of certain scientific ideas. The boundary between science fiction and scientific speculation can become blurred, with SF stories sometimes being mistaken for genuine scientific theories, especially when they align with popular scientific trends.

It is important to acknowledge the value of creativity and imagination in SF writing, as well as the potential for these works to inspire interest in science and technology. However, it is equally important for SF writers to maintain a critical and informed approach to incorporating scientific concepts into their narratives. This requires a balance between embracing the spirit of exploration and innovation while also being mindful of the need for accuracy and plausibility in the portrayal of scientific ideas.

In conclusion, Greg Egan's quote sheds light on the complex dynamics between popular science and SF writing. It serves as a reminder of the potential pitfalls of being swept away by fashionable scientific trends and the importance of maintaining a critical and informed approach to incorporating scientific concepts into imaginative narratives. By navigating this relationship thoughtfully, SF writers can continue to harness the power of scientific inspiration while contributing to a more nuanced and informed understanding of the intersection between science and fiction.