Connotation/Denotation: Metastable

The Random House Dictionary defines metastable here.

The denoted meaning of metastable, then, refers to something that is both 'unstable' and 'transient' and simultaneously 'relatively long-lasting'. The chemical definition refers to metastability as being currently in an unstable and somehow unnatural state, but awaiting a transition to become stable again. Metastability is most frequently used in reference to chemical or biological systems, and so we might expect Deleuze to be similarly referring to such systems or to similar systems with clear rules and order.

In connotation, Deleuze often modifies metastable with 'perpetual'. In this way, the metastable object is in a transient state, but that transiency never ends. This is a significant shift from the denoted meaning of metastable, which assumes of stable natural order. Meanwhile, in referring metastable to such institutions as corporations and educational systems, Deleuze may be trying to create the impression of order on units that are typically considered to exist without clear rules or order. Finally, in using metastable to help define "one is never finished with anything", Deleuze implies that metastability has something to do with be trapped or stuck in an uncomfortable or unnatural position and with there being no hope of recourse.