There is a peculiar aesthetic pleasure in constructing the form of a syllabus, or a book of essays, or a course of lectures. Visions and shadows of people and ideas can be arranged and rearranged like stained-glass pieces in a window, or chessmen on a board.
A.S. Byatt reflects on the aesthetic enjoyment found in organizing educational content, such as syllabi, essays, or lectures. She likens this process to arranging beautiful stained-glass pieces or chess pieces, suggesting that there is a creative art in the way ideas and individuals are brought together. This highlights the significance of structure in conveying knowledge.
Byatt's comparison emphasizes the thoughtful arrangement of concepts and perspectives in an educational context. This not only enhances the learning experience but also encapsulates a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of ideas, just as a well-designed window or chessboard showcases harmony and strategy.