Meaning: This quote by Juan Goytisolo, a Spanish poet and novelist, provides insight into his approach to writing. Goytisolo's statement suggests a departure from traditional notions of literary creation, as he emphasizes the act of structuring and combining textual elements over the invention of specific characters and situations. By likening his writing process to architecture or the plastic arts, he highlights the importance of form and composition in shaping his literary works.

Goytisolo's assertion that he does not invent situations, characters, or actions when he writes is a fascinating departure from conventional understandings of the creative process. It suggests a deliberate shift away from the traditional narrative-driven approach to writing, instead focusing on the arrangement and interplay of textual elements. This approach aligns with the broader trend of experimental and avant-garde literature, where the emphasis is often placed on form, language, and structural innovation.

The notion of "structures and discursive forms" as the primary focus of Goytisolo's writing process is particularly intriguing. It suggests a preoccupation with the underlying frameworks that govern the organization of the text, as well as the manner in which different textual components interact and intersect. This emphasis on structure echoes the principles of structuralist and post-structuralist literary theory, which foreground the study of underlying systems and patterns within literary works.

Furthermore, Goytisolo's reference to "secret affinities" among textual groupings evokes the idea of hidden connections and underlying coherence within the fabric of his writing. This notion of enigmatic correspondences suggests a deeper, more complex layer of meaning that transcends the surface level of the text. It implies that Goytisolo's writing is imbued with a sense of intricacy and interrelation, inviting readers to unravel the concealed relationships between different textual elements.

By drawing parallels between his writing process and architecture or the plastic arts, Goytisolo underscores the artistic dimension of his approach. Architecture, with its emphasis on spatial composition and structural design, offers a compelling analogy for the manner in which Goytisolo conceives of the arrangement of textual elements within his works. Similarly, the reference to the plastic arts evokes the idea of sculpting and molding language to create intricate and evocative forms.

In essence, Goytisolo's quote encapsulates a distinctive and innovative approach to writing, one that prioritizes the formal and structural aspects of literary creation. By foregrounding the role of structures, discursive forms, and secret affinities in his writing process, Goytisolo invites readers to engage with his works on a deeper level, exploring the intricate interplay of textual elements and uncovering the hidden connections that underpin his writing.

Overall, Goytisolo's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of literary creation, challenging traditional notions of invention and emphasizing the significance of form, structure, and intertextual relationships. It invites readers to consider the ways in which writers conceptualize and craft their works, shedding light on the intricate and multifaceted processes that underlie the act of writing.