Meaning: The quote "I was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, for a while, about which the less said the better, and then I was in the Mediterranean, about which the more said the better." by Harry Mathews, captures the contrasting experiences of the author during his time in different locations. Harry Mathews was an American author known for his avant-garde literary works and his association with the Oulipo literary movement.

Norfolk, Virginia, is a city with a long history and strong ties to the United States Navy. As a military stationed in Norfolk, Mathews may have had experiences that were less than positive, leading to his sentiment of "the less said the better." Norfolk has a reputation for its military presence and can be a challenging place for some individuals due to its transient nature and the demands of military life.

On the other hand, the Mediterranean is a region known for its diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Mathews' contrasting sentiment of "the more said the better" suggests that his experiences in the Mediterranean were far more positive and worthy of discussion. The Mediterranean region encompasses countries such as Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences.

Mathews' quote can be interpreted as a reflection of the impact of environment and context on one's experiences. Norfolk, with its military connotations and potentially challenging aspects, may have left Mathews with a desire to minimize discussion of his time there. In contrast, the beauty and richness of the Mediterranean region may have inspired him to want to share more about his experiences there.

Harry Mathews' work often delves into themes of language, perception, and the human experience, and this quote can be seen as a reflection of his keen awareness of the influence of environment on one's outlook. The quote also highlights the power of contrasting experiences and how they can shape one's perspective.

In conclusion, Harry Mathews' quote "I was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, for a while, about which the less said the better, and then I was in the Mediterranean, about which the more said the better," encapsulates the contrasting impact of different locations on his experiences. It invites reflection on the power of environment to shape our perceptions and the significance of sharing our positive experiences.