Marginalia

Abstract

In this paper, we explore the way in which the ‘margins’ can be a space for excitement as well as for threat. We examine how the pursuit of truth can be disrupted by marginalia, which appear as unwanted intrusions. However, attending to these marginal experiences and interruptions produces opportunities for newness, among them recognition of the value of trivia and failure. A literary example is given to show how texts might be read against themselves to invoke moments of disappearance, from which the subject might return changed.