By Force of Fantasy: How We Make Our Lives

We’ve been taught that fantasies are a waste of time, keeping us from focusing on the realities of our lives. But this innovative study shows us how truly valuable these mental emanations can be. Drawn from clinical experience and research as well as examples from literature and art, here is evidence that fantasies fuel our behavior, test our limitations, and deepen our connections with others. They protect us from acts of desperation and serve as viable life plans. Find out why each of us plays out specific themes from childhood through old age, how we guard our fantasies even from ourselves, and why most of our fantasies are sexual ones. Most important, this groundbreaking study offers encouraging proof that spinning fantasies is no idle pursuit, but rather a critical component in shaping our behavior and personality, and ultimately the path we travel through life.