Totalization and supplementarity

"Totalization, therefore, is sometimes defined as useless, and sometimes as impossible" (205).

Totalization is the idea that there can be a system that explains everything. In “Structure, Sign and Play” Derrida says that this system does not exist; there is no system that can explain absolutely everything. The two reasons why it is impossible are: there is far too much knowledge to master (classical reason); and because there is too much play (Derrida’s reason). When there is too much play the system is not fixed and therefore, cannot be measured. The reason there is infinite play is that the system is lacking a center; because when there is a center, play is limited and the system is stable.

The movement of supplementarity is the movement of play that is allowed because of the absence of a center. So then, a sign is needed to replace the absent center. This sign is called a supplement. What exactly happens because of the supplement? Does play become limited as if the original center was present? Is the supplement like a body double; it stands in to stabilize the system?

The only example I can think of that might relate to this is the relationship between speech and writing. Writing is subordinate to speech; it’s absent. Speech is present. Therefore, writing is a supplement to speech.

Also, how do totalization and supplementarity work together exactly; do they? I just assumed they somehow worked together because Derrida transitions from one right into the other in his essay.