Meaning: The quote "You're getting everyone's point of view at the same time, which, for me, is the perfect state for a novel: a cubist state, the cubist novel." by Michael Ondaatje encapsulates the essence of a narrative structure that incorporates multiple perspectives and experiences. Michael Ondaatje, a celebrated author known for his innovative and unconventional storytelling techniques, introduces the concept of a "cubist novel," drawing parallels to the artistic movement of Cubism. In order to understand the significance of this quote, it's essential to explore the principles of Cubism and its application to the literary domain.

Cubism, as an art movement pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque in the early 20th century, revolutionized the traditional representation of reality in visual art. It sought to depict objects from multiple viewpoints simultaneously, deconstructing and reassembling them in an abstract and fragmented manner. This approach challenged the linear perspective and single-point focus prevalent in art at the time, ushering in a new era of visual expression characterized by multifaceted interpretations.

In the context of literature, the concept of a "cubist novel" aligns with the idea of presenting a story through a mosaic of perspectives, each contributing to a layered and comprehensive narrative. Ondaatje's reference to "getting everyone's point of view at the same time" implies a departure from the singular, omniscient narrator often found in traditional novels. Instead, he advocates for a literary framework where the voices of diverse characters converge, offering a kaleidoscopic portrayal of events, emotions, and perceptions.

This approach to storytelling not only enriches the reader's experience by providing a multifaceted understanding of the narrative but also mirrors the complexities of human existence. By weaving together disparate viewpoints, the cubist novel transcends the limitations of a singular narrative lens, inviting readers to engage with the story from various angles and empathize with a spectrum of experiences.

Ondaatje's own works, such as "The English Patient" and "In the Skin of a Lion," exemplify his exploration of unconventional narrative structures and polyphonic storytelling. In "The English Patient," for instance, he skillfully intertwines the perspectives of different characters, gradually unveiling their interconnected lives and histories. This intricate layering of voices creates a rich tapestry of emotions and insights, echoing the principles of Cubism in the literary realm.

The concept of the cubist novel also resonates with the postmodernist movement in literature, which often challenges traditional forms and embraces fragmentation, intertextuality, and non-linear narratives. By adopting a cubist approach, authors can subvert linear storytelling conventions and embrace the fluidity of human perception and memory.

In conclusion, Michael Ondaatje's quote encapsulates the essence of a cubist novel as a literary work that embraces multiple perspectives in a fragmented, non-linear fashion. By drawing inspiration from the principles of Cubism, this narrative approach offers a nuanced and multi-dimensional portrayal of characters and events, enriching the reader's engagement and reflecting the intricate nature of human experience. The concept of the cubist novel invites authors to expand the boundaries of storytelling, challenging conventional narrative structures and inviting readers into a world where the convergence of diverse viewpoints creates a dynamic and compelling literary experience.