I think art is communication. To that extent, it can be the words between the words. It has a possibility of communicating something more than people can do with prose or just talking.

Boots Riley’s quote explores the idea that art is a powerful form of communication that goes beyond what can be expressed through conventional language. He suggests that art, whether through music, visuals, or performance, carries the potential to convey deeper, more nuanced messages that might be difficult to express with just words or prose. Art allows individuals to communicate not only through direct statements but through emotions, symbolism, and interpretations that may not be immediately obvious, but are deeply impactful.

Riley’s mention of “the words between the words” alludes to the idea that art often communicates in subtleties or layers that go beyond surface-level understanding. It touches on the unspoken truths, emotions, and ideas that might be left out in everyday conversation. This type of communication taps into the human experience in a way that transcends language, inviting the audience to interpret and engage with the artwork on a deeper level.

The quote also highlights the capacity of art to express ideas and emotions that are difficult to articulate in ordinary conversation. Sometimes, words fall short of capturing the complexity of thoughts, and in those moments, art can fill that gap. Whether through the brushstrokes of a painting, the rhythm of a song, or the imagery of a film, art opens up new possibilities for expressing the inexpressible.

In essence, Riley is emphasizing the universal and transcendent power of art as a form of communication that speaks to the soul and engages the audience in ways that ordinary language cannot. The origin of this quote reflects Riley's own perspective as an artist and musician, where his works often challenge conventional boundaries and express complex emotions and ideas that go beyond traditional verbal communication.