Ma means an interval in time and space, but it is much more than just a blank space. It is best described as a concept related to commenting on, or engaging in,  the Japanese arts such as: Kabuki, Noh, dance, storytelling, music, calligraphy and painting. When ma is used in conjunction with the arts it relates to rhythm and berating (it was originally a concept related to music). It can best be described in theater as a dramatic pause in spoken lines, in music it is interpreted according to each musician's taste and how one wishes to space the notes. In painting, the empty space (ma) is used to enhance the whole of the painting.

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