A Distilled Opposition

Date
2016
Language
English
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M.F.A.
Degree Year
2016
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Indiana University
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Abstract

We build our own realities. We construct meaning through our personal, social, and cultural experiences. It is our nature to unconsciously create an underlying structure as a guideline to revolve around in our lives. This structure isn’t always enough. It would supply support until limitations occur from the changes evolving in every aspect. When we feel the constriction from these limitations, we react and search for solutions. Jacques Derrida’s Deconstruction Theory suggests that transforming the so-called structure as a solution begins in dissecting meaning. “Whether in the order of spoken or written discourse, no element can function as a sign without referring to another element which itself is not simply present” (Derrida 26). Derrida argues that in Western thought, the idea of defining meaning is based on the concept of a center, a presence, or a fixed point. He points out that a consequential meaning is never present, but rather is revealed from the contrast of its binary opposite, such as reality/illusion, masculine/feminine, good/bad, etc. By decentering the meaning, deconstruction subverts and shifts from central to marginal and aims to reveal the original meanings instead of being in opposition. It creates new terms; it does not intend to synthesize the concepts in opposition, but to understand their difference and their eternal interaction.

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