Meaning: The quote "The more real things get, the more like myths they become" by Rainer Fassbinder is a thought-provoking statement that touches on the complex relationship between reality and perception. Rainer Werner Fassbinder was a renowned German film director, screenwriter, and actor known for his provocative and innovative approach to storytelling. His works often delved into the psychological and emotional complexities of human relationships, society, and the impact of power dynamics.

In this quote, Fassbinder seems to be suggesting that as things become more tangible and concrete in our lives, they also take on a mythical quality. This can be interpreted in several ways, reflecting on the multifaceted nature of reality and its intersection with our personal experiences and beliefs.

One interpretation of the quote could be that as events or phenomena become more real and significant to us, they transcend mere factual occurrences and take on symbolic or allegorical meanings. This transformation from the mundane to the mythical can occur when certain events or objects become deeply intertwined with our emotions, memories, and cultural narratives. For example, historical figures or events that have shaped societies over time often take on legendary or mythical status, with their stories and symbolism transcending the realm of mere historical fact.

Furthermore, the quote might also suggest that as we engage with the world and form our understanding of it, we often construct narratives and mythologies around our experiences. This can be seen in the way that individuals and societies create stories and legends to make sense of their existence, to explain natural phenomena, or to impart moral lessons. These narratives, while rooted in real experiences, can take on a mythical quality as they become part of our shared cultural consciousness.

Fassbinder's quote may also allude to the idea that the nature of reality itself is inherently mythic. As we navigate our lives, we encounter ambiguous truths, subjective perceptions, and the interplay of collective beliefs and personal experiences. In this sense, reality itself may be constantly shaped and reshaped by the myths and narratives we construct to make sense of it.

In the context of Fassbinder's body of work, this quote reflects his interest in exploring the blurred boundaries between reality and fiction, and the transformative power of storytelling. His films often delved into the psychological and emotional complexities of human relationships, society, and the impact of power dynamics, blurring the lines between reality and myth to provoke thought and introspection.

Ultimately, Fassbinder's quote invites us to consider the ways in which we perceive and interpret the world around us. It challenges us to recognize the mythical dimensions that underpin our understanding of reality and the profound impact of our personal and collective narratives on how we make sense of the world.