Meaning: This quote by Alfred Jarry, a French writer known for his absurdist plays and avant-garde contributions to literature, delves into the transformative and creative nature of theater. Jarry was a key figure in the theater of the absurd movement, and his works often challenged conventional norms and pushed the boundaries of traditional storytelling. In this quote, Jarry highlights the essential role of the theater in bringing forth new and vibrant expressions of life through the portrayal of characters and conflicts.

The first part of the quote, "The theater, bringing impersonal masks to life, is only for those who are virile enough to create new life," speaks to the transformative power of theater. Jarry suggests that the theater has the ability to breathe life into impersonal masks, meaning that through the art of performance, actors have the capacity to embody characters and bring them to life in a way that transcends their individual identities. This process requires a certain vigor and creative energy, as indicated by Jarry's use of the word "virile." In this context, "virile" does not necessarily refer to masculinity, but rather to the strength and vitality required to engage in the act of creative expression.

The next part of the quote, "either as a conflict of passions subtler than those we already know, or as a complete new character," further elucidates Jarry's perspective on the creative potential of theater. He emphasizes the need for the theater to present conflicts and passions that are more nuanced and intricate than those commonly encountered in everyday life. This suggests that the theater serves as a space for exploring the complexities of human emotions and interactions, offering a platform for the expression of deeper, more profound conflicts. Additionally, Jarry underscores the importance of creating entirely new characters, signaling the boundless possibilities for invention and innovation within the realm of theater. This aligns with his avant-garde approach to storytelling, which often defied traditional narrative structures and conventions.

Overall, Jarry's quote encapsulates the idea that the theater is a realm of boundless creativity and transformation, where actors and playwrights have the opportunity to breathe life into new and complex personas. The theater serves as a vehicle for the exploration of human experience and emotion, offering a platform for the expression of passions and conflicts that extend beyond the familiar. Jarry's words also imply that the theater requires a certain boldness and creative vigor, as it demands the ability to give life to new and dynamic characters and narratives.

In conclusion, Alfred Jarry's quote captures the essence of theater as a space for the creation of vibrant and multifaceted expressions of life. His words resonate with the idea that the theater has the power to bring forth new dimensions of human experience, offering a platform for the exploration of complex emotions and the portrayal of innovative characters. Jarry's emphasis on the transformative nature of theater and the need for creative vigor underscores the profound impact of this art form in shaping and illuminating the human condition.