Fantasy is a tremendous means of expanding and refining the capacity for freeform conditional thinking. We learn, in contemplating, exploring and creating fictional worlds, how to think and feel with a far broader and richer perspective. We no longer allow ourselves the cozy indolence of considering only what is given to us in our daily lives.

 We must begin to adopt fresh perspectives if we are to make any sense of an alien world, whatever its superficial form. We must approach things from distinct vantages to fully appreciate the depth and beauty of a well-told tale, or a thoughtfully crafted realm. We must inhabit the minds of even those we hold in contempt. We must stretch the limits of our thinking and escape from familiar ruts.

 Heartfelt immersion in fantasy and outlandish (but coherent) theories is analogous to stretching, yoga, or tai chi for the mind; it expands the capabilities and ease with which one can enter certain “ranges of motion” psychologically, just as the bodily motions, if practiced wisely, lead to a more limber and supple physique over time. By moving in non-habitual and initially stressful ways we expand our repertoire and make possible to ourselves new movements and combinations of movements. With this increased versatility of function we can begin to relate to the wider world in an entirely different fashion, a fashion which would have seemed painful or impossible to us beforehand.

 There is great power in increasing one’s flexibility. We learn to transcend the narrowness of our personal troubles and wants, we practice ethical thinking and are by degrees ennobled, enlivened and enriched in spirit. This needn’t always be a comfortable or agreeable experience to move us in the right direction. We sometimes, in confronting awful things, become more clear as to what is beautiful and good.