Meaning: The quote "The work in S, M, L, XL was almost suicidal. It required so much effort that our office almost went bankrupt." by Rem Koolhaas, a renowned architect, encapsulates the intense and challenging nature of the design process for the book "S, M, L, XL: Office for Metropolitan Architecture" which he co-authored with Bruce Mau. The book, published in 1995, is a massive compilation of architectural projects, essays, manifestos, and conceptual designs that spanned over a decade of work by Koolhaas and his firm, the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA).

In the context of the quote, "S, M, L, XL" refers to the title of the book, which signifies the different scales of architectural projects and the diverse range of content contained within its pages. The phrase "almost suicidal" reflects the extreme level of dedication, effort, and commitment that Koolhaas and his team poured into the creation of the book. The use of such strong language underscores the immense challenges and sacrifices involved in producing a work of such magnitude and complexity. It speaks to the relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation that has been a hallmark of Koolhaas' approach to architecture and design throughout his career.

Koolhaas is known for pushing the boundaries of architecture and urban design, and "S, M, L, XL" is a testament to his ambitious and unconventional vision. The book defies traditional categorization, blurring the lines between architecture, art, and theory. It is not merely a monograph of OMA’s projects but rather a multi-faceted exploration of the cultural, social, and political forces that shape the built environment.

The reference to the office "almost going bankrupt" underscores the financial risks and strains that were incurred during the production of the book. The sheer scale of the undertaking, combined with the uncompromising standards and uncompromising vision of Koolhaas, pushed the firm to the brink of financial instability. This candid admission by Koolhaas reveals the high stakes and personal investment involved in the project, highlighting the profound commitment to realizing a groundbreaking and influential work.

Despite the challenges and sacrifices, "S, M, L, XL" has become a seminal work in architectural literature, revered for its innovative format, provocative content, and visionary approach to the practice of architecture. It has had a profound impact on subsequent generations of architects, scholars, and designers, shaping the discourse around contemporary architecture and urbanism.

In conclusion, Rem Koolhaas' quote encapsulates the arduous and all-consuming nature of the creative process behind "S, M, L, XL," emphasizing the uncompromising dedication and the remarkable ambition that drove its realization. The book stands as a testament to Koolhaas' relentless pursuit of architectural innovation and his willingness to push the boundaries of conventional practice, ultimately reshaping the way we think about and engage with the built environment.