Meaning: The quote you've provided is by Alexander Kluge, a renowned German film director, author, and television journalist. Let's break down this thought-provoking quote and delve into the historical and philosophical aspects it encompasses.

Kluge's reference to the library of Alexandria carries profound symbolism and implications. The library of Alexandria, one of the most significant and celebrated libraries of the ancient world, was a major center of learning and knowledge. It housed a vast collection of scrolls, manuscripts, and texts from various civilizations, making it a beacon of intellectual and cultural exchange. The burning of the library, whether intentional or accidental, was a devastating loss to human knowledge and history.

Despite the destruction of the physical library, Kluge highlights the enduring legacy of its influence. He draws attention to the enduring legacy of the library's classification system, specifically the sorting of letters of the alphabet. This practice, rooted in the tradition of organizing knowledge and information, has persisted through the ages, transcending the physical existence of the library itself.

In essence, Kluge's reflection on the library of Alexandria evokes the idea of continuity and resilience in the face of loss. It underscores the lasting impact of historical institutions and their enduring influence on modernity. By acknowledging the persistence of the library's organizational principles, Kluge suggests that certain expressions of modernity are made possible by the preservation and adaptation of ancient traditions.

The notion of "sorting the letters of the alphabet according to that tradition" can be interpreted as a metaphor for the enduring principles and structures that underpin human knowledge and communication. It speaks to the timeless nature of certain fundamental concepts and systems that transcend the passage of time and technological advancements.

Furthermore, Kluge's reference to "certain expressions of modernity" alludes to the idea that contemporary innovations and interventions in textual and intellectual domains are built upon the foundations laid by historical legacies. The continuity of organizing information, whether through traditional alphabetical classification or modern digital indexing, reflects the interconnectedness of past and present modes of knowledge organization.

Kluge's perspective invites contemplation on the interplay between tradition and innovation, continuity and change. It prompts us to consider how historical precedents and enduring practices shape and enable the evolution of modern intellectual and cultural expressions.

In conclusion, Alexander Kluge's quote encapsulates a profound reflection on the enduring legacy of the library of Alexandria and its ongoing influence on modernity. By invoking the library's tradition of sorting letters of the alphabet, Kluge underscores the enduring impact of historical knowledge systems and their role in shaping contemporary expressions of intellectual and textual interventions. His words invite us to recognize the enduring threads of tradition that weave through the fabric of modernity, reminding us of the timeless foundations that underpin our evolving intellectual landscape.