Meaning: The quote "This head has risen above its hair in a moment of abandon known only to men who have drawn their feet out of their boots to walk awhile in the corridors of the mind" is from the American writer Djuna Barnes. Barnes was a modernist writer known for her experimental and avant-garde style, and her work often explored themes of identity, gender, and the inner workings of the mind. The quote is taken from one of her novels or essays, and it reflects her distinctive and poetic approach to language and imagery.

In this quote, Barnes uses metaphor and vivid imagery to convey a sense of liberation and intellectual exploration. The image of a head rising above its hair suggests a departure from the physical and material world, transcending the constraints of the body to delve into the realm of thought and imagination. The phrase "a moment of abandon" implies a sense of freedom and release, as though the individual has cast off the burdens of everyday life to engage in a more introspective and contemplative experience.

The second part of the quote, "known only to men who have drawn their feet out of their boots to walk awhile in the corridors of the mind," reinforces the idea of a mental journey or exploration. The act of "drawing their feet out of their boots" suggests a deliberate and purposeful choice to leave behind the practical and mundane concerns of daily existence in favor of a more ethereal and intellectual pursuit. The "corridors of the mind" evoke a sense of mystery and possibility, hinting at the vast and complex inner landscape of thoughts, memories, and emotions.

Barnes' use of gender-specific language in this quote is noteworthy. By specifying "men who have drawn their feet out of their boots," she may be making a deliberate statement about the societal constraints placed on women and the limited opportunities for intellectual and creative exploration available to them during her lifetime. This choice of language can also be seen as a commentary on the broader cultural context in which she was writing, highlighting the challenges and barriers faced by women who sought to engage in intellectual and artistic pursuits.

Overall, this quote encapsulates Barnes' fascination with the inner workings of the human mind and the potential for intellectual and creative liberation. It speaks to the universal human experience of seeking moments of transcendence and introspection, as well as the challenges and obstacles that can stand in the way of such pursuits. Through her evocative language and imagery, Barnes invites readers to contemplate the complexities of the human experience and the profound possibilities that lie within the corridors of the mind.

In conclusion, Djuna Barnes' quote "This head has risen above its hair in a moment of abandon known only to men who have drawn their feet out of their boots to walk awhile in the corridors of the mind" offers a rich and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. Through vivid imagery and metaphor, Barnes invites readers to consider the potential for intellectual and creative liberation, as well as the societal constraints that can impede such pursuits. Her distinctive style and thematic concerns continue to resonate with readers and scholars, cementing her legacy as a pioneering and influential modernist writer.