Meaning: This quote by Nicholas Mosley, a renowned novelist, delves into the concept of living organisms being intricately intertwined with opposites and impossibilities. The essence of life, as articulated in this quote, is the perpetual need for adaptation and the coexistence of opposing forces. It encapsulates the paradoxical nature of life and the inherent struggle for survival and identity.

One interpretation of this quote is that living entities are constantly faced with contrasting forces and challenges that seem impossible to reconcile. The living cell, for instance, exemplifies this idea as it must continuously adapt and evolve to maintain its existence, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The cell is a microcosm of the broader concept of life, with its ever-present need to navigate conflicting circumstances and sustain its identity amidst change and adversity.

The notion of opposites and impossibilities in relation to living things can be further understood through the lens of evolution. Living organisms have evolved over millennia to thrive in diverse and often hostile environments. This process of adaptation and survival has required them to grapple with opposing forces such as predator-prey dynamics, environmental fluctuations, and genetic variability. The ability to navigate these opposing forces and seemingly impossible challenges is a hallmark of living organisms.

Moreover, the quote alludes to the dynamic nature of life, emphasizing the ongoing process of adaptation and the struggle to maintain identity. Living things must constantly adjust to their surroundings, responding to internal and external pressures in order to survive. This adaptability is a defining characteristic of life, as it enables organisms to endure and persist in the face of ever-changing conditions.

At a deeper level, the quote also raises philosophical questions about the nature of life and existence. It prompts contemplation on the existential paradox of being alive – the simultaneous experience of harmony and discord, stability and flux, unity and duality. This duality is reflected in the coexistence of opposites within living organisms, highlighting the complex and multifaceted nature of life itself.

In summary, Nicholas Mosley's quote encapsulates the intricate relationship between living things and opposites, emphasizing the perpetual need for adaptation and the coexistence of seemingly contradictory forces. It invites reflection on the fundamental nature of life, the challenges inherent in sustaining existence, and the enduring struggle to maintain identity amidst a backdrop of impossibilities. This thought-provoking insight into the essence of life encourages contemplation on the dynamic and paradoxical nature of living organisms and their enduring quest for survival and self-preservation.