Remember this: Nothing is written in the stars. Not these stars, nor any others. No one controls your destiny.

This aphorism by Gregory Maguire is a powerful declaration against fatalism and a fervent embrace of individual agency. It asserts that our lives are not predetermined by cosmic forces or any external power, directly challenging the notion of predestination often symbolized by "the stars." Maguire, known for subverting traditional narratives and empowering his characters to forge their own paths, underscores the profound truth that our destiny is not a script to be followed but a story we actively write through our choices and actions. The deeper meaning lies in the liberating call to take ownership of one's life, fostering a sense of responsibility, hope, and the radical freedom to shape one's future. It champions the idea that even in the face of perceived limitations, personal will and action are the ultimate arbiters of one's fate.