Meaning: The quote you have provided is by Manuel Puig, an Argentine author best known for his novel "Kiss of the Spider Woman." The quote discusses the cinematic technique employed by the legendary filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock, specifically in relation to the use of objective and subjective cameras. Puig draws a parallel between these camera perspectives and the narrative techniques of third- and first-person narrators in literature.

Alfred Hitchcock, often referred to as the "Master of Suspense," was a pioneering and influential filmmaker known for his distinctive storytelling and directorial style. One of the hallmarks of Hitchcock's work was his masterful use of camera techniques to manipulate the audience's perception and create a sense of tension and suspense.

The concept of an objective camera refers to a camera that observes the action from an impartial and detached viewpoint, much like an omniscient narrator in literature. In Hitchcock's films, the objective camera is often used to establish the setting, provide context, and create a sense of objectivity for the audience. This perspective allows viewers to observe the events unfolding on screen without any particular character's emotional or psychological influence.

On the other hand, the subjective camera represents a more personal and immersive viewpoint, akin to a first-person narrator in literature. In Hitchcock's films, the subjective camera is utilized to convey the emotional and psychological experiences of a particular character. By adopting this perspective, the audience is drawn into the character's point of view, experiencing the events through their subjective lens and sharing their emotions and perceptions.

Puig's comparison of these camera perspectives to the narrative techniques of literature is particularly insightful. In literature, the choice of a first- or third-person narrator significantly shapes the reader's engagement with the story. A first-person narrator provides a direct and intimate connection to the protagonist's thoughts and feelings, offering a deeply personal and subjective experience. Conversely, a third-person narrator maintains a certain distance from the characters, offering a broader and more objective view of the narrative.

By drawing parallels between the cinematic and literary techniques, Puig highlights the artistry and complexity of storytelling across different mediums. Both film and literature rely on the manipulation of perspective to convey meaning, evoke emotions, and engage the audience or reader.

In the context of Hitchcock's films, the interplay between the objective and subjective cameras is a fundamental aspect of his storytelling prowess. The seamless integration of these perspectives allows Hitchcock to control the audience's perception, leading them through a carefully crafted emotional and psychological journey. Whether it's the unflinching gaze of the objective camera capturing the unfolding drama or the immersive experience of the subjective camera delving into a character's inner turmoil, Hitchcock's meticulous use of these techniques demonstrates his mastery of visual storytelling.

In conclusion, Manuel Puig's quote sheds light on the nuanced approach to storytelling employed by Alfred Hitchcock, emphasizing the parallels between cinematic and literary techniques. The use of objective and subjective cameras in Hitchcock's films mirrors the narrative choices of first- and third-person narrators in literature, serving to immerse the audience in the emotional and psychological landscape of the story. This insightful comparison underscores the depth and artistry of Hitchcock's cinematic vision and its resonance with the principles of narrative storytelling across different artistic mediums.