Meaning:
Elfriede Jelinek, an Austrian playwright and novelist, in this quote, discusses the intersection of music, composition, and language in her creative process. Jelinek is known for her innovative use of language and her exploration of societal and gender issues in her works. Her statement sheds light on her unique approach to writing, drawing connections between music and the manipulation of language to reveal deeper meanings.
Jelinek's background in music and composition has significantly influenced her literary style and approach to writing. She sees a parallel between the process of creating music and the manipulation of language in her work. The quote suggests that her training in music has equipped her with a set of skills and sensibilities that she has translated into her writing process. This connection between music and language is a central theme in her creative work.
The idea of a "musical language process" implies that Jelinek's writing is not just about conveying information or telling a story, but also about creating a specific rhythm, tone, and texture through the arrangement of words and sounds. She seems to be emphasizing the musicality of language and the importance of the auditory experience in her writing. This aligns with her reputation for employing a rich and complex prose style that demands attention to the nuances of language.
Jelinek's reference to "the sound of the words" points to her focus on the auditory qualities of language. She is interested in how words sound, how they resonate, and how they interact with one another. By playing with the sounds of words, she aims to elicit meanings that may not be immediately apparent. This highlights her intention to subvert conventional interpretations and reveal underlying truths through the manipulation of language.
The notion of words having to "expose their true meaning against their will" suggests a deliberate and confrontational approach to language. Jelinek seems to be describing a process in which she challenges the words themselves, compelling them to reveal deeper, perhaps hidden, meanings. This idea aligns with her overarching literary project of critiquing societal power structures and exposing the often unspoken or suppressed realities of contemporary life.
Jelinek's statement provides insight into the complexity of her writing process and the intellectual and creative demands she places on herself as a playwright. Her approach to language and composition reflects a deep engagement with the power of words and the potential for language to transcend its immediate semantic content. This aligns with her broader thematic concerns, which often revolve around the ways in which language can be manipulated, distorted, or used as a tool of oppression.
In conclusion, Elfriede Jelinek's quote offers a glimpse into the intricate relationship between music, composition, and language in her creative process. It reveals her commitment to exploring the musicality of language, the manipulation of words, and the revelation of deeper meanings. Her background in music has clearly shaped her approach to writing, and her innovative use of language reflects a profound engagement with the complexities of communication and expression. Jelinek's work continues to provoke and challenge readers, inviting them to consider the multifaceted nature of language and its potential to illuminate the truths that lie beneath the surface.