"There is no great sport in having bullets flying about one in every direction, but I find they have less horror when among them than when in anticipation"

This quote by Umberto Eco speaks with the concept that when confronted with a tight spot, it can be simpler to accept it than to expect it. In other words, it is typically easier to deal with a difficult situation when it is really occurring than when it is simply a possible problem. This is due to the fact that when a scenario is in fact happening, it is easier to concentrate on the present moment and do something about it to deal with the problem. On the other hand, when a circumstance is only a possible issue, it can be hard to know how to prepare for it and can result in sensations of anxiety and worry. This quote suggests that it is better to accept a difficult situation and do something about it to address it than to fret about it in advance.