There is only one admirable form of the imagination: the imagination that is so intense that it creates a new reality, that it makes things happen.

In the quote, "There is only one admirable form of the imagination: the imagination that is so intense that it creates a new reality, that it makes things happen," Sean O'Faolain emphasizes the transformative power of imagination. He suggests that the most powerful and admirable form of imagination is one that goes beyond mere daydreaming or fantasy. Instead, it is an imagination so vivid and strong that it can manifest new ideas, concepts, or realities. This type of imagination doesn't just exist in the mind; it actively shapes and influences the world around us.

O'Faolain's quote also points to the idea that imagination is not just about creating something abstract or intangible, but about using that mental energy to create tangible outcomes. A vivid and intense imagination becomes a driving force behind change—whether that means creating new art, discovering new scientific truths, or transforming society through bold new ideas. For O'Faolain, the true measure of imagination is its ability to translate thought into action and alter reality.

This view of imagination aligns with the broader belief that creative thinking and vision can lead to practical, world-changing results. It challenges the idea that imagination is only for personal escape or idle thinking. Rather, it underscores the potential of imagination to bring about real-world transformation, making it an essential force for progress, innovation, and creativity.

The origin of this quote is rooted in O'Faolain's literary and philosophical views on creativity. As an Irish writer and essayist, O'Faolain often explored the intersection of individual vision and social change. His works reflect a belief in the power of imagination to transcend the limitations of the present and to create possibilities for the future. This quote encapsulates his admiration for an imagination that has the strength and vision to alter the course of events and create new realities.