"I have a kind of standard explanation why, which goes like this: Science fiction is one way of making sense out of a senseless world"

In this quote, author John Sladek is going over the purpose and significance of science fiction. He begins by stating that he has a standard explanation for why sci-fi exists. This recommends that he has believed deeply about the category and has a clear understanding of its purpose. He then goes on to describe that sci-fi works as a means of making sense out of a ridiculous world. This indicates that the world we reside in can often be disorderly and complicated, and sci-fi offers a way to comprehend and understand it. By exploring fantastical and futuristic concepts, sci-fi enables us to consider and review our own reality. In essence, Sladek is highlighting the power of science fiction to provide meaning and understanding in a world that can often appear ridiculous.