"Bipedal movement is the skill of controlled falling," said Square. "If it weren't so commonplace, it would seem miraculous—like much out here, to be… - Jasper Fforde

Feedback loops, echo chambers, circular reinforcement. All could play a part in escalating the utterly imaginary to the level of reality, sometimes with fatal consequences.

"You'll forgive me for saying this," said Webastow, looking over his glasses, "but this is the most harebrained piece of unadulterated stupidity that any government has ever undertaken anywhere."
"Thank you very much," replied Ms. Yogert courteously. "I'll make sure your compliments are forwarded to Prime Minister van de Post."

The atmosphere in the room was so thick with dramatic clichés you could have cut it with a knife.