“The text is a tissue of quotations drawn from the innumerable centres of culture.”
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Quote Analysis: Roland Barthes on Intertextuality
Roland Barthes’ assertion that “The text is a tissue of quotations drawn from the innumerable centres of culture” highlights the concept of intertextuality — the idea that all texts are interconnected and shaped by prior cultural and literary works. Rather than viewing a text as an isolated creation, Barthes emphasizes that every piece of writing is woven from countless references, influences, and echoes of other texts. This perspective challenges the notion of authorial originality, suggesting instead that meaning arises from the complex network of cultural sources embedded within the text. It also implies that interpreting a text involves recognizing these cultural connections and understanding how they contribute to its significance.
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