The ambivalence of writing is such that it can be considered both an act and an interpretive process that follows after an act with which it cannot coincide. As such, it both affirms and denies its own nature.
Paul De ManRead
Literature exists at the same time in the modes of error and truth; it both betrays and obeys its own mode of being.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Literature reflects both reality and fiction, revealing deeper truths through artistic expression.
In this quote, Paul De Man suggests that literature embodies a dual existence, simultaneously presenting both errors and truths. It acts as a mirror to human experience, capturing the complexities of existence. By navigating through narratives that may be misleading or inaccurate, literature ultimately serves to illuminate profound truths about life, humanity, and the world we inhabit.
Themes
LiteratureTruthErrorExpressionHumanity
In practice
Example use cases
In a book club discussion, one might use this quote to illustrate the complexity of interpreting literary themes.
More from Paul De Man
All quotes βCuriously enough, it seems to be only in describing a mode of language which does not mean what it says that one can actually say what one means.
Paul De ManRead
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