Meaning: The quote you provided is from Manuel Puig, a prominent Argentine author best known for his novel "Kiss of the Spider Woman." In this quote, Puig expresses his admiration for the beauty of William Faulkner's poetry while also expressing his disapproval of Faulkner's themes. This quote sheds light on Puig's nuanced perspective as a writer and reader, and it also invites us to consider the relationship between an author's aesthetic qualities and their thematic content.

Firstly, let's explore the aspect of the quote where Puig expresses his appreciation for the beauty of Faulkner's poetry. William Faulkner, the renowned American author, is celebrated for his distinct and evocative writing style. His prose often exhibits a poetic quality, characterized by rich imagery, complex syntax, and a lyrical rhythm. Faulkner's ability to craft language with a profound sense of beauty has been widely acknowledged by literary critics and readers alike. His poetic prowess is evident in works such as "The Sound and the Fury," "As I Lay Dying," and "Light in August," where he masterfully weaves together words to create a vivid and immersive reading experience.

Puig's recognition of the beauty in Faulkner's poetry aligns with the notion that literature possesses an aesthetic dimension that transcends the mere conveyance of information or narrative. The beauty of language, imagery, and composition plays a significant role in shaping the emotional and intellectual impact of a literary work. Puig's admiration for Faulkner's poetic sensibility reflects an appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that underpin the literary endeavor.

On the other hand, Puig's disapproval of Faulkner's themes raises the question of how an author's thematic choices can influence the reception of their work. Themes in literature encompass the overarching ideas, concepts, and issues that a writer explores within their writing. Faulkner's themes often delve into the complexities of the human condition, the legacy of the past, social injustice, and the intricate dynamics of the American South. These themes are often imbued with a sense of darkness, tragedy, and moral ambiguity, reflecting the profound and often harrowing aspects of human existence.

Puig's aversion to Faulkner's themes suggests that while he acknowledges the aesthetic prowess of Faulkner's poetry, he finds himself at odds with the thematic content that Faulkner presents. This raises the broader question of how readers engage with literature, as it highlights the subjective and multifaceted nature of literary interpretation. While one reader may be captivated by the beauty of the language, another may find themselves in disagreement with the thematic explorations presented within the same work.

In conclusion, Manuel Puig's quote encapsulates the complex interplay between aesthetic appreciation and thematic interpretation in literature. It underscores the multifaceted nature of literary engagement and invites us to consider how writers and readers navigate the intricate balance between aesthetic beauty and thematic content within the realm of literature.

If you would like to learn more about the specific thematic elements of Faulkner's works or Puig's literary contributions, I would be happy to provide additional information.