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refer to the transitional or transformative spaces that exist between distinct phases, states, or conditions. The term "liminal" comes from the Latin word "limen," meaning "threshold." Liminal spaces can be both physical and metaphorical, and they are often associated with ambiguity, disorientation, and a sense of being in-between.
physical locations serve as transitions between different areas or states. Examples include:
- Hallways and corridors
- Waiting rooms
- Airports and train stations
- Empty parking lots
- Abandoned buildings
These spaces are often characterized by their eerie, surreal, and sometimes unsettling atmosphere. They are not destinations themselves but serve as passageways or temporary stops.
the metaphysical liminal space refers to periods of transition in life, identity, or psychological states. Examples include:
- Adolescence, the transition between childhood and adulthood
- The phase between sleep and wakefulness
- Times of major life changes, such as moving to a new city, changing careers, or undergoing significant personal transformations
Anthropologist Arnold van Gennep introduced the concept of liminality in his work on rites of passage, describing it as the middle stage of rituals where individuals are no longer in their previous state but have not yet achieved their new status.
Liminal spaces can be fertile ground for creativity and innovation, as they often challenge conventional boundaries and norms.
Experiencing liminal spaces can evoke feelings of discomfort, introspection, and a heightened sense of awareness.
They are often depicted to evoke feelings of nostalgia, unease, and otherworldliness.
Certain times of day, such as twilight or the early hours of the morning, can be considered liminal periods. These times often evoke a sense of otherworldliness and are associated with reflection and stillness.
The concept of liminality has extended into digital spaces, where the internet and social media platforms can serve as transitional zones between different states of reality and identity.
In urban studies, certain areas of a city may be considered liminal, particularly those undergoing rapid change or redevelopment, where old and new coexist in a state of flux.
Architects and urban planners consider the impact of transitional spaces, such as hallways, plazas, and public transport hubs, on human behavior and social interaction.
Films and photographs frequently use liminal spaces to create atmospheric tension or to symbolize a character's internal transition. Examples include the use of hallways in horror films or the depiction of urban decay in dystopian narratives.
Many myths and legends feature liminal spaces or characters in liminal states. For instance, crossing a river or traveling through a forest often symbolizes a rite of passage or transformation.
Even mundane activities, like commuting or waiting in line, can create liminal experiences, prompting moments of reflection or disengagement from routine.
