Johan Huizinga, in his book _Homo Ludens_, argues that play is a fundamental part of human culture and society. He defines play as "a voluntary activity or occupation executed within certain fixed limits of time and place, according to rules freely accepted, but absolutely binding, having its aim in itself and accompanied by a feeling of joy and tension, a consciousness of 'otherness' and a temporary, limited exemption from the ordinary rules of life" (Huizinga, 1955, p. 13).
Huizinga argues that play is not simply a way to pass the time, but rather that it is a way for people to express themselves and their culture. He writes, "Play is a free activity standing quite consciously outside 'ordinary' life as being 'not serious', but at the same time absorbing the player intensely and utterly. It is an activity connected with no material interest, and no profit can be gained by it. It proceeds within its own proper boundaries of time and space according to fixed rules and in an orderly manner. It promotes the formation of social groupings which tend to surround themselves with secrecy and to stress their difference from the common world by disguise or other means" (Huizinga, 1955, p. 10).
Huizinga's view of play as a portrait of community suggests that play is a way for people to come together and express their shared values and beliefs. Play can be a way for people to learn about their culture and to socialize with others. It can also be a way for people to escape from the ordinary rules of life and to experience a sense of freedom and joy.
In Conclusion, play is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. It can be seen as a form of art, a way of learning, a form of social interaction, or a way to express oneself. Huizinga's view of play as a portrait of community highlights the social and cultural significance of play and suggests that play can be a way for people to come together and express their shared values and beliefs.