Meaning:
The quote you mentioned is from the acclaimed Cuban writer Guillermo Cabrera Infante, who is best known for his novel "Three Trapped Tigers" (also known as "Tres Tristes Tigres" in Spanish). This novel is a masterpiece of Latin American literature and is celebrated for its innovative and experimental approach to storytelling.
Cabrera Infante's quote highlights the visual nature of the novel, emphasizing its unique use of visual elements, such as blank pages, dark pages, and words arranged to form stars. These visual elements serve to enhance the reading experience and immerse the reader in the world of the novel.
"Three Trapped Tigers" is a postmodern novel that defies traditional narrative conventions, and its visual experimentation is a key aspect of its artistic and literary significance. The use of blank pages, for example, creates moments of pause and reflection, allowing the reader to engage with the text in a more contemplative manner. The dark pages may symbolize the mysterious or enigmatic aspects of the narrative, adding an element of intrigue and depth to the reading experience.
The mention of "stars made of words" suggests a poetic and imaginative use of language, where the words themselves form celestial shapes, perhaps reflecting the dreamlike and surreal qualities of the novel. This poetic use of language is characteristic of Cabrera Infante's writing style, which often blurs the boundaries between reality and fantasy.
The "famous magical cube made of numbers" is a reference to a recurring motif in the novel, where a Rubik's Cube serves as a symbol of the complexity and interconnectedness of the narrative. This visual representation of the novel's intricate structure invites readers to engage with the text on multiple levels, challenging them to unravel its mysteries and uncover hidden meanings.
The mention of a page that is a mirror is particularly intriguing, as it suggests a self-reflexive element within the novel, where the reader is encouraged to reflect on their own identity and perception. This use of a mirror page reflects Cabrera Infante's playful and innovative approach to storytelling, inviting readers to actively participate in the construction of meaning.
Overall, Cabrera Infante's quote captures the visual richness and complexity of "Three Trapped Tigers," shedding light on the novel's artistic and experimental qualities. By incorporating a diverse range of visual elements, Cabrera Infante creates a multi-dimensional reading experience that challenges conventions and expands the possibilities of storytelling. "Three Trapped Tigers" continues to be revered for its bold creativity and remains a significant work in the landscape of world literature.