Rule and Constraint

Reading Rule and Constraint by Marcel Benabou helps me better understand how constraints in writing do not actually limit a writer but liberate him/her. Generally, people “refuse constraint” because it is an unnecessary rule that only limits the possibilities in writing. However, Benabou points out that constraint actually forces the writer to go beyond “traditional” writing formats which actually awakens the imagination and reveals more creativity. On Monday, our group talked about how inspiration is a rule valued by traditional writers. Inspiration provides writers with a reason to write something for others to read. Not having an inspiration for writing would be a constraint in the traditional writer’s view. However, quoting Queneau, Benabou points out those writers, like Perec, that do not have inspiration are actually the creators of inspiration for their readers.