What does this mean, "Each work has its own space, which should neither be conceived as a sort of cage nor regarded as extending to infinity"
The phrase suggests a metaphorical understanding of how individual works—whether they be artistic, literary, or conceptual—exist within their own defined boundaries or contexts.
1. **"Each work has its own space"**: This implies that every piece of work has a unique context or framework in which it operates. This context can include themes, genres, styles, and the individual intentions of the creator.
2. **"which should neither be conceived as a sort of cage"**: This part warns against viewing this space as restricting or confining. If a work is seen as trapped within rigid boundaries, it can limit interpretation, creativity, and exploration of that work's full potential.
3. **"nor regarded as extending to infinity"**: Conversely, this suggests that one should not view the context of a work as limitless. An infinite interpretation can lead to a lack of focus or meaning, making it difficult to engage with the work on a concrete level.
Overall, the statement conveys the idea that a work should maintain a balanced perspective—understanding its specific context and boundaries while still allowing for exploration and interpretation without becoming overly restrictive or overly vague. This balance creates an ideal space for the work to be appreciated and understood.