Meaning: The quote "The symbolic view of things is a consequence of long absorption in images. Is sign language the real language of Paradise?" by Hugo Ball, the author of the Dada Manifesto, raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of symbolism, language, and perception. Hugo Ball was a German author, poet, and one of the leading figures of the Dada movement, which emerged in Zurich during World War I. Dadaism was characterized by its rejection of traditional artistic and societal norms, embracing absurdity, spontaneity, and the illogical. Ball's quote reflects the Dadaist interest in challenging conventional modes of communication and understanding.

The first part of the quote, "The symbolic view of things is a consequence of long absorption in images," suggests that our perception of the world is shaped by our immersion in symbolic representations. This notion aligns with the Dadaist belief in the power of images and symbols to influence our understanding of reality. Dadaists sought to disrupt and subvert traditional symbols and meanings, aiming to provoke new ways of thinking and perceiving.

The second part of the quote, "Is sign language the real language of Paradise?" introduces a profound inquiry into the nature of language and its relationship to a utopian ideal. Here, Ball challenges the primacy of spoken or written language, proposing that sign language may offer a more authentic means of communication. This question aligns with Dadaist interest in non-verbal forms of expression and the potential for alternative modes of communication to transcend the limitations of conventional language.

Overall, Ball's quote can be interpreted as a contemplation on the influence of symbols and images on our understanding of the world, as well as a provocative inquiry into the nature of language and its potential for transcending conventional communication. In the context of Dadaism, this quote reflects the movement's rejection of established artistic and linguistic conventions, as well as its embrace of the nonsensical and the unconventional.

Hugo Ball's quote invites us to consider the role of symbolism in shaping our perception of reality. It challenges us to question the ways in which we interpret and communicate meaning, and to explore the potential for alternative forms of expression. By prompting us to contemplate the significance of sign language as a potential "language of Paradise," the quote encourages us to reevaluate the traditional hierarchies and limitations of language, and to consider the possibility of new and unconventional means of communication.

In conclusion, Hugo Ball's quote encapsulates the Dadaist spirit of challenging established norms and conventions, particularly in the realms of symbolism, language, and communication. It encourages us to critically examine the ways in which we perceive and interpret the world, and to consider the potential for alternative forms of expression to transcend traditional linguistic boundaries. Ball's inquiry into the symbolic view of things and the nature of language serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationship between symbols, images, and communication, inviting us to rethink our understanding of language and perception.