Meaning: This quote by Edith Sitwell, the renowned British poet, encapsulates her deep affinity for hot water, symbolizing her profound connection to it since infancy. Sitwell's evocative words convey a sense of comfort, familiarity, and belonging associated with the element of hot water. In this interpretation, "hot water" serves as a metaphor for the poet's personal and creative environment, reflecting her enduring immersion in its soothing embrace.

Sitwell's assertion that "Hot water is my native element" suggests a profound, innate connection to this specific element. Just as a fish is said to be in its "native element" when in water, Sitwell implies that hot water is an essential and natural part of her existence. This sentiment speaks to the deeply ingrained influence that hot water has had on her life, shaping her experiences from infancy to adulthood.

The phrase "I was in it as a baby, and I have never seemed to get out of it ever since" further emphasizes the enduring nature of Sitwell's relationship with hot water. By referencing her early immersion in hot water as a baby, the poet highlights the formative role that this element has played in her life. Additionally, the notion of never "seeming to get out of it ever since" conveys a sense of continuity and constancy, suggesting that hot water has remained a constant presence throughout Sitwell's life, exerting a lasting and unyielding influence.

Sitwell's choice of words conjures an image of perpetual immersion, evoking the idea that hot water has become an integral part of her identity and existence. This profound connection to hot water may also be interpreted as a reflection of Sitwell's creative process and inspirations. In this light, "hot water" could symbolize the source of her artistic inspiration, representing the environment in which her creativity thrives and flourishes.

Furthermore, Sitwell's use of the phrase "my native element" implies a deep-seated affinity and belonging to hot water, suggesting that it is a fundamental aspect of her being. This characterization aligns with the concept of an "element" as an essential component or defining characteristic, reinforcing the idea that hot water holds a central place in Sitwell's life and identity.

In conclusion, Edith Sitwell's quote "Hot water is my native element. I was in it as a baby, and I have never seemed to get out of it ever since" reveals her profound and enduring connection to hot water. Through her evocative words, Sitwell conveys a sense of deep-seated affinity, familiarity, and continuity with this element, emphasizing its formative influence on her life and identity. Whether interpreted as a metaphor for personal comfort, creative inspiration, or both, Sitwell's quote encapsulates the enduring impact of hot water on her existence, enriching our understanding of the poet and her relationship to her surroundings.