Meaning: The quote by Roland Barthes, a French literary theorist, critic, and philosopher, delves into the physicality and bodily expression required in the art of theater. The metaphor of "long arms" is used to convey the idea that actors and performers need a wide range of physical expression and gesture to convey emotions, thoughts, and actions effectively on stage. This quote emphasizes the importance of physicality and bodily presence in the art of theater and highlights the significance of gestures and movements in conveying meaning to the audience.

In the context of theater, the notion of "long arms" can be interpreted as the ability of an actor to express themselves physically and emotionally through expansive and expressive gestures. Barthes suggests that having "long arms" metaphorically represents an actor's capacity for physical expression, suggesting that it is preferable to have an abundance of physicality and gesture rather than being limited in this aspect. This emphasizes the importance of bodily expression and physicality in conveying meaning and emotion to the audience in the context of theater.

Furthermore, by stating that "An artiste with short arms can never, never make a fine gesture," Barthes underlines the idea that physical limitations can hinder an actor's ability to effectively communicate and convey the intended emotions and messages through their gestures. This implies that having limited physical expression can restrict an actor's ability to fully embody their character and convey the depth and complexity of their performance to the audience.

Barthes' quote can also be understood as a commentary on the relationship between the physical and emotional aspects of theatrical performance. It suggests that the physicality of an actor, particularly their ability to use expressive gestures, is integral to the portrayal of emotions and the communication of meaning within a theatrical context. The quote underscores the interconnectedness of physical and emotional expression in the art of theater, emphasizing that bodily movements and gestures are essential components of conveying the depth and nuance of a character's emotions and intentions to the audience.

In a broader sense, Barthes' quote can be seen as a reflection of the multifaceted nature of performance and the intricate interplay between the physical and emotional dimensions of theatrical expression. It serves as a reminder of the significance of physicality and bodily presence in the art of theater, highlighting the importance of embodying characters and conveying meaning through the nuanced and expressive use of gestures and movements.

In conclusion, Roland Barthes' quote encapsulates the fundamental role of physical expression and bodily presence in the art of theater. It emphasizes the importance of expansive gestures and bodily movements in conveying emotions, thoughts, and actions effectively on stage. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate relationship between physicality and emotional expression in the context of theatrical performance, highlighting the essential role of physical gestures in communicating meaning and connecting with the audience.