Quote Meaning - It really helps if you know your subject matter immediately. I find that enormously useful because then you can concentrate on all the usual novelistic things – the character, the plot and so forth – and you don’t have to spend an enormous amount of time learning another trade, essentially.

" It really helps if you know your subject matter immediately. I find that enormously useful because then you can concentrate on all the usual novelistic things – the character, the plot and so forth – and you don’t have to spend an enormous amount of time learning another trade, essentially. "
- Gregory Benford

In simple terms, the quote suggests that it's extremely helpful for a writer to have immediate knowledge about their subject matter before starting to write. This allows them to focus on crafting compelling characters and plots without spending excessive time learning new information.

The deeper meaning of this statement highlights the importance of being well-informed or an expert in one’s chosen topic when embarking on creative writing. Having prior knowledge enables writers to weave intricate narratives effortlessly, ensuring that their work is both engaging and credible. This does not imply that acquiring necessary information is unimportant; rather, it underscores the advantage of having a solid foundation before diving into the creative process.

Gregory Benford, the author of this quote, is an American physicist and science fiction writer known for his hard science fiction works. His insights often blend scientific rigor with literary creativity, reflecting on the intersection between scientific expertise and imaginative storytelling.