What does this poem mean "surrealism is destructive, but it destroys only what it considers to be shackles limiting our vision"

The quote "surrealism is destructive, but it destroys only what it considers to be shackles limiting our vision" speaks to the purpose and intent of surrealism as an artistic and literary movement. Surrealism emerged in the early 20th century, aiming to challenge and transcend the constraints imposed by rational thought, convention, and traditional artistic forms. Here’s a breakdown of the meaning: 1. **Surrealism as Destructive**: At its core, surrealism seeks to break down existing norms and limitations, whether they be societal, artistic, or psychological. The term "destructive" indicates that surrealism aims to dismantle the established ways of thinking and seeing the world. 2. **Shackles Limiting Our Vision**: This phrase refers to the mental, cultural, and societal barriers that restrict our understanding and perception of reality. These shackles can include conventional logic, realism, and expectations that shape how we interpret our experiences. 3. **Purpose of Destruction**: The destruction invoked by surrealism is not aimless; it serves a purpose. By removing these shackles, surrealism aims to expand our vision and allow for a more profound, often more irrational or dreamlike understanding of life, reality, and the subconscious. In essence, the quote suggests that surrealism's goal is to liberate creative and imaginative thought from the constraints of conventionality, ultimately encouraging a deeper exploration of human experience beyond the surface of reality.