one does not only wish to be understood when one writes; one wishes just as surely not to be understood.

Summary

This quote highlights the duality of intentions in writing. It suggests that an author's purpose is not solely to ensure their writing is understood by the reader, but also to intentionally challenge or evade understanding. It implies that writers may grapple with the notion of self-expression and may also strive to provoke curiosity, confusion, or deeper contemplation in readers. The quote acknowledges the complexity and multifaceted nature of communication, emphasizing that writing can serve both to enlighten and mystify.

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