"Curiously enough, it seems to be only in describing a mode of language which does not mean what it says that one can actually say what one means"
- Paul de Man
About this Quote
This quote by Paul de Man recommends that it is only when we are explaining a mode of language that does not mean what it says that we can really reveal what we indicate. This implies that language is typically used to obscure the fact, instead of to express it. This is because language can be utilized to manipulate and trick, along with to interact. By utilizing language that does not imply what it states, we can avoid the mistakes of language and really reveal our real ideas and feelings. This quote also suggests that language can be utilized to develop a barrier in between ourselves and the reality. By using language that does not suggest what it says, we can prevent the risk of being misinterpreted and can interact our real intentions. Eventually, this quote recommends that language can be used to both odd and express the truth, depending upon how it is used.
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