I demand that my books be judged with utmost severity, by knowledgeable people who know the rules of grammar and of logic, and who will seek beneath the footsteps of my commas the lice of my thought in the head of my style.
Profession: Poet
Topics: Thought, People, Books, Footsteps, Grammar, Logic, Rules, Style, Will,
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Meaning:
Louis Aragon, a prominent French poet and novelist, expressed his strong desire for his works to be critically examined in the quote, "I demand that my books be judged with utmost severity, by knowledgeable people who know the rules of grammar and of logic, and who will seek beneath the footsteps of my commas the lice of my thought in the head of my style."
In this quote, Aragon emphasizes the importance of rigorous evaluation of his writings by individuals who possess a deep understanding of grammar, logic, and literary style. He metaphorically refers to the meticulous scrutiny of his punctuation and writing style as a means to uncover the essence of his thoughts and the intricacies of his expression.
Aragon's insistence on having his books judged with "utmost severity" reflects his commitment to ensuring that his work is subjected to rigorous analysis and assessment. By placing emphasis on the need for knowledgeable individuals to evaluate his writings, he underscores the significance of expertise and discernment in the appraisal of literary works.
Furthermore, Aragon's reference to the "rules of grammar and of logic" underscores his belief in the importance of adherence to linguistic and logical principles in the evaluation of his works. This indicates his desire for his writing to be evaluated not only for its creative and artistic merit but also for its adherence to the technical aspects of language and reasoning.
The phrase "beneath the footsteps of my commas the lice of my thought in the head of my style" encapsulates Aragon's belief that the minutiae of his writing, down to the placement of commas, serves as a reflection of the deeper layers of his ideas and the nuances of his literary style. He metaphorically portrays the process of critical evaluation as an exploration of the underlying meaning and essence of his writing, akin to searching for the "lice" of his thoughts within the intricate fabric of his style.
Aragon's assertion can be interpreted as a plea for a thorough and insightful evaluation of his work, one that delves beyond the surface to uncover the depth and complexity of his literary creation. His demand for scrutiny implies a level of confidence in the richness and significance of his writing, as well as a recognition of the value of informed criticism in furthering the understanding and appreciation of his work.
Overall, Louis Aragon's quote encapsulates his unwavering commitment to the meticulous examination of his literary output and his belief in the importance of informed and discerning criticism. It reflects his desire for his work to be assessed with intellectual rigor and astuteness, underscoring his dedication to the art of writing and the significance he attributes to the critical evaluation of his creative endeavors.