I think all people use myths and symbols because the World is too complex for anyone to understand, to get a grip on, to control. I don't think we ever outgrow that need. We do not see the world with the same wonder as a two-year old (one of the beauties of having children is the opportunity to re-experience and re-capture some of the wonder). And our belief in Santa Claus, for example, differs, perhaps becoming more sophisticated, than that of a pre-teen.
We learn what it is to be human, and what it is to be a man or a woman from stories. I know I could give a list of some of the books and movies and, later, TV that have shaped my life. One of the things that has happened is I can question the logic within stories, and develop variant endings, sequels and spinoffs. I can see stories and life meet in irony. Pica's initial premise in this thread is tantalizing, and I don't quite know how to respond, but at least this is a place holder.
Mythologically yours,
S