Meaning: The quote "To have one's own story told by a third party who doesn't know that the character in question is himself the hero of the story being told, that's a technical refinement" by Raymond Queneau, a French poet, novelist, and co-founder of Oulipo (Ouvroir de littérature potentielle, or Workshop of Potential Literature), encapsulates the concept of narrative perspective and the complex interplay between the storyteller, the characters, and the audience. This quote delves into the intricate layers of storytelling and the different ways in which a narrative can be constructed and interpreted.

At its core, this quote touches on the idea of narrative perspective and the role of the storyteller in shaping the perception of the characters within a story. It highlights the notion that the perspective from which a story is told can significantly influence the portrayal of the characters and their roles within the narrative. The idea of a third party telling the story without realizing the true identity of the hero introduces an element of dramatic irony and raises questions about the nature of storytelling and the subjective nature of truth within a narrative.

From a literary standpoint, this quote also delves into the concept of metafiction, which refers to the practice of drawing attention to the constructed nature of the narrative itself. By highlighting the technical refinement of having one's own story told by a third party, Queneau calls attention to the intricacies of storytelling and the deliberate choices made by the author or storyteller in shaping the narrative. This metafictional element adds a layer of complexity to the quote, inviting readers to consider the act of storytelling as a creative and interpretive endeavor.

Furthermore, the quote raises thought-provoking questions about the relationship between identity and perception within a narrative. The idea that a character can be the hero of their own story, unbeknownst to the storyteller, speaks to the complexities of individual agency and self-perception within the context of a larger narrative. It prompts reflection on the ways in which individuals are portrayed and understood within the stories that are told about them, as well as the potential for misunderstandings and misinterpretations to arise from differing perspectives.

In the context of Queneau's broader body of work, this quote aligns with his exploration of language, structure, and narrative innovation. As a prominent figure in the Oulipo literary movement, Queneau was known for his experimental and playful approach to literature, often incorporating elements of wordplay, constraints, and unconventional narrative techniques into his writing. The quote reflects Queneau's interest in pushing the boundaries of storytelling and challenging traditional narrative conventions.

In conclusion, Raymond Queneau's quote "To have one's own story told by a third party who doesn't know that the character in question is himself the hero of the story being told, that's a technical refinement" offers a rich exploration of narrative perspective, metafiction, and the complexities of storytelling. It invites readers to consider the intricate dynamics between storytellers, characters, and audiences, as well as the ways in which identity and agency are portrayed within a narrative. Through this quote, Queneau prompts us to reflect on the art of storytelling and the multifaceted nature of truth and perception within the realm of literature.