Meaning: This quote by Manuel Puig, the Argentine author best known for his novel "Kiss of the Spider Woman," delves into the complex relationship between an author's personal unconscious and the aesthetic facade of a novel. Puig was a master of incorporating psychology and introspection into his works, and this quote offers a glimpse into his creative process and the role of the unconscious in shaping the aesthetic qualities of a novel.

Puig's statement suggests that the creative process of writing a novel is deeply intertwined with the author's personal unconscious. The unconscious mind, according to Freudian psychology, represents the reservoir of feelings, thoughts, and memories that are not easily accessible to conscious awareness. Puig's assertion implies that the aesthetic facade of a novel, its style, tone, and overall artistic expression, is not merely a conscious decision made by the author, but rather a product of the author's personal unconscious.

In this context, the term "aesthetic facade" refers to the outward appearance and artistic elements of a novel. Puig seems to be suggesting that the aesthetic qualities of a novel are not solely the result of deliberate crafting or intentional design, but are in fact shaped by the author's unconscious mind. This perspective challenges the traditional notion that an author's style and artistic choices are the product of conscious, rational decisions, and instead posits that the unconscious plays a pivotal role in determining the aesthetic outcome of a literary work.

Puig's assertion reflects a broader philosophical and psychological understanding of creativity and the human mind. It aligns with the idea that creativity often emerges from the depths of the unconscious, where unfiltered emotions, instincts, and imaginative impulses reside. Many renowned artists and thinkers have explored the relationship between the unconscious mind and creativity, viewing the unconscious as a wellspring of inspiration and originality.

From a literary standpoint, Puig's quote invites readers and scholars to consider the deeper layers of meaning and expression within a novel. It suggests that the aesthetic qualities of a work of fiction are not only the result of conscious storytelling and stylistic choices, but are also imbued with the author's unconscious desires, fears, and experiences. This insight adds a new dimension to the interpretation of literary works, encouraging readers to look beyond the surface of a narrative and explore the subconscious undercurrents that shape its aesthetic form.

Furthermore, Puig's statement sheds light on the deeply personal nature of the creative process. By emphasizing the role of the author's personal unconscious in shaping the aesthetic facade of a novel, Puig underscores the intimate and introspective nature of literary creation. He suggests that a novel is not just a product of technical skill and narrative structure, but a reflection of the author's inner world, with all its complexities and contradictions.

In conclusion, Manuel Puig's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the relationship between the author's personal unconscious and the aesthetic facade of a novel. It invites us to consider the profound influence of the unconscious mind on the artistic expression and emotional resonance of literary works. Puig's insight reminds us that behind every novel lies a rich tapestry of unconscious thoughts and feelings, shaping its aesthetic form in ways that transcend conscious intention.