And I grew up on a steady diet of science fiction, especially apocalyptic and postapocalyptic fiction.

In this quote, Justin Cronin, a novelist known for his The Passage series, reflects on how his early exposure to science fiction, particularly apocalyptic and postapocalyptic fiction, shaped his creative interests and writing. Cronin suggests that his steady diet of these genres influenced his imagination and his approach to storytelling, likely inspiring the dark, dystopian themes that feature prominently in his work. This genre, often centered around the end of the world or the survival of humanity in a drastically changed environment, has had a profound impact on his worldview and creative output.

Cronin's mention of growing up on a "steady diet" of such fiction indicates that these themes were not just occasional interests, but a significant and ongoing influence in his life. The focus on apocalyptic and postapocalyptic fiction highlights his fascination with what happens when civilization collapses or when humanity faces catastrophic events, themes that are central to his novels. The influence of these genres can be seen in the way he explores survival, human resilience, and the consequences of societal collapse in his writing.

The origin of this quote comes from Cronin’s personal experience as a reader and writer. As a child, he was drawn to speculative fiction, which often imagines worlds on the brink of destruction or in the aftermath of disaster. His love for these genres likely fueled his desire to create narratives that explore similar themes of survival, morality, and human endurance in the face of overwhelming odds.

Ultimately, Cronin’s words underscore the importance of early influences in shaping a writer’s voice and creative direction. By acknowledging the lasting impact of science fiction, especially apocalyptic narratives, he reveals how the themes and ideas he encountered in his youth became central to the stories he tells as an adult. This reflects the way that literature can shape a writer's identity and the themes they are drawn to explore throughout their careers.