Meaning: The quote, "I had a terrible vision: I saw an encyclopedia walk up to a polymath and open him up," by Karl Kraus, is a thought-provoking and enigmatic statement that invites reflection on the nature of knowledge, expertise, and the relationship between specialized and general knowledge. Karl Kraus, an Austrian writer and journalist known for his satirical wit and incisive commentary on society, language, and culture, often employed paradoxical and metaphorical language to convey his ideas.

At first glance, the quote appears to be a surreal and disturbing image of an encyclopedia, a symbol of comprehensive knowledge, approaching a polymath, a person with expertise in multiple fields, and seemingly dissecting or revealing the polymath's inner workings. This vivid and unsettling vision can be interpreted in several ways, each offering insight into the complexities of knowledge and intellectual pursuits.

One interpretation of the quote revolves around the tension between specialized, encyclopedic knowledge and the breadth of understanding embodied by a polymath. The encyclopedia, with its vast collection of information, represents the accumulation of specialized knowledge across various domains. In contrast, the polymath embodies a different kind of knowledge—one that integrates diverse fields and fosters a holistic understanding of the world. The act of "opening up" the polymath can be seen as a metaphor for the potential fragmentation or reduction of their multidimensional expertise into compartmentalized, encyclopedic categories.

Furthermore, the quote may also allude to the power dynamics inherent in the dissemination and control of knowledge. The image of the encyclopedia approaching the polymath evokes a sense of agency and intentionality, as if the repository of knowledge is actively engaging with the embodiment of intellectual versatility. This juxtaposition raises questions about the influence and authority of established knowledge structures over individuals who embody expansive intellectual curiosity and versatility.

Moreover, the quote can be examined in the context of the evolving relationship between traditional sources of knowledge, such as encyclopedias, and the contemporary landscape of information dissemination and consumption. With the rise of digital platforms and the democratization of knowledge, the role of encyclopedias as authoritative repositories of information has been challenged by the accessibility of diverse sources and perspectives. In this light, the quote may reflect a critique of rigid, encyclopedic frameworks encroaching upon the dynamic, adaptive nature of polymathic inquiry and understanding.

In conclusion, Karl Kraus's quote, "I had a terrible vision: I saw an encyclopedia walk up to a polymath and open him up," encapsulates a rich tapestry of themes related to knowledge, expertise, and the interplay between specialized and multidisciplinary understanding. By invoking a striking and disconcerting image, the quote encourages contemplation on the complexities and nuances of intellectual pursuits, the dynamics of knowledge dissemination, and the evolving nature of expertise in an interconnected world.

Overall, the quote serves as a thought-provoking catalyst for exploring the intricate relationships between different forms of knowledge and the individuals who embody them.