"A predilection for genre fiction is symptomatic of a kind of arrested development"

This quote by Thomas M. Disch suggests that those who prefer genre fiction, such as science fiction, fantasy, and horror, might be stuck in a specific phase of advancement. This could indicate that they are unable to move past the escapism of these genres and into more fully grown types of literature. It might also recommend that those who prefer genre fiction are not able to engage with more complex and challenging works. This could be due to an absence of interest or a failure to understand more complex works. Eventually, this quote indicates that those who prefer genre fiction may be stuck in a specific phase of development and unable to move past it.