Meaning: Stanley Fish, an American literary theorist and legal scholar, made this statement in the context of his work on literary theory and criticism. The quote reflects Fish's interest in challenging the idea of inherent or universal standards in art, literature, and society. His work has been influential in the field of literary theory, particularly for its focus on the ways in which meaning and value are constructed within specific historical and cultural contexts.

In this quote, Fish is addressing the impact of his ideas on individuals who identify with the political left. He suggests that his work has had a psychologically liberating effect on them by prompting them to question and ultimately reject established norms and standards. The implication is that by understanding the historical and cultural origins of these norms, individuals can free themselves from what Fish sees as the false constraints of these norms. This aligns with the broader goals of many on the political left, who often seek to challenge and transform existing power structures and social hierarchies.

Fish's approach to literary theory and criticism is often associated with the concept of "interpretive communities," which emphasizes the role of social and historical context in shaping the interpretation and evaluation of literary works. According to Fish, meaning is not inherent in the text itself, but rather emerges through the interpretive practices of specific communities of readers. This perspective can be seen as a rejection of the idea of universal or timeless standards of literary value, and it aligns with the broader postmodern turn in literary and cultural studies.

Fish's ideas have been both influential and controversial. On one hand, they have contributed to a more nuanced understanding of the ways in which literature and culture are shaped by historical and social forces. On the other hand, some critics have accused Fish of promoting a relativistic and nihilistic view of culture, one that undermines the possibility of meaningful interpretation and evaluation. The quote in question reflects Fish's own position as a provocateur within literary and cultural studies, challenging his readers to question the basis of their own assumptions and values.

In summary, Stanley Fish's quote encapsulates his broader approach to literary theory and criticism, which emphasizes the historical and cultural contingency of standards and norms. His work has been influential for its challenge to traditional notions of literary value and meaning, and it continues to provoke lively debate within the fields of literary studies and cultural theory.