I think that prog rock is the science fiction of music. Science fiction speculates on what the future might be and look like and how we'll get there, and yet there's always a central theme of humanity, or there should be. Progressive rock has the same concept of exploration into the parts of the music world that hasn't been explored.

William Shatner’s quote draws a parallel between progressive rock (or prog rock) and science fiction, both of which engage in a form of speculation about the future. He likens prog rock to science fiction because both seek to explore uncharted territories—science fiction envisions future possibilities and the paths that might lead to them, while prog rock pushes the boundaries of musical expression by venturing into new and unexplored realms of sound. The central theme in both, Shatner notes, should remain humanity, meaning that despite the exploration of new territories, both art forms maintain a focus on the human experience.

The origin of this comparison comes from Shatner’s understanding of both genres. As an actor and a figure closely associated with the Star Trek franchise—a cornerstone of science fiction—he naturally draws on his experience in that genre. Additionally, Shatner himself has ventured into music, and his familiarity with the experimentation inherent in prog rock allows him to recognize the similarities between these two artistic forms. Both involve pushing boundaries while maintaining a connection to human emotions and experiences.

Shatner also highlights the spirit of exploration in prog rock, much like in science fiction. Progressive rock often seeks to break away from traditional structures and conventions in music, experimenting with complex time signatures, orchestral arrangements, and conceptual storytelling. This sense of pushing beyond the familiar parallels the speculative nature of science fiction, which imagines futuristic possibilities while grounding them in familiar, relatable themes about the human condition.

Ultimately, Shatner’s comparison illustrates how both progressive rock and science fiction are visionary in nature. They encourage innovation, creativity, and exploration, seeking to reveal new possibilities in their respective fields. By drawing this analogy, Shatner emphasizes that these art forms are not just about technical achievement but also about engaging with the deeper aspects of what it means to be human as we look toward the future.