George R.R. Martin needs no introduction. His series, A Song of Ice and Fire, have sold many millions of copies and have been translated into over twenty languages, the fifth book alone, into 40 languages. HBO’s Game of Thrones, based on this series, is similarly a huge hit. In fact, it is the biggest drama and most talked about show on television. 

I ran across a short essay from GRRM on his website in which he explains his love of fantasy. It’s beautiful and true, and it resonated with me. I’ve tried to escape reality ever since I was little and I’m still trying. GRRM explains the allure far better than I can:

The best fantasy is written in the language of dreams. It is alive as dreams are alive, more real than real … for a moment at least … that long magic moment before we wake.

I suggest you read the whole essay. it’s not long, but it’s beautifully crafted and would convince even a stoic nihilist to ponder hope. Read the rest here: On Fantasy | George R.R. Martin.