Meaning: The quote "Evil is like water, it abounds, is cheap, soon fouls, but runs itself clear of taint" by Samuel Butler, a 19th-century British poet, is a thought-provoking analogy that uses the characteristics of water to describe the nature of evil. This quote suggests that evil is pervasive, easily accessible, and has a tendency to corrupt, but ultimately has the ability to cleanse itself of its negative influences.

To begin with, the comparison of evil to water highlights the ubiquity of evil in the world. Water is abundant and can be found in various forms and places, just as evil can manifest itself in different ways and permeate different aspects of life. This analogy implies that evil is not confined to specific circumstances or individuals but rather has the potential to exist everywhere, much like water.

Furthermore, the quote suggests that evil is "cheap," indicating that it is readily available and easily accessible. This aspect of the analogy emphasizes the ease with which evil can be embraced or enacted, often without significant effort or cost. It implies that people may be tempted to succumb to evil impulses or actions due to their accessibility and perceived lack of barriers.

The phrase "soon fouls" in the quote underscores the corrupting influence of evil. Just as water can become contaminated and impure, evil has the capacity to taint and pollute the moral and ethical fabric of individuals and societies. This part of the analogy conveys the idea that exposure to evil has a detrimental effect, leading to moral degradation and the erosion of goodness.

However, the most intriguing aspect of the quote is its assertion that evil "runs itself clear of taint." This part of the analogy suggests that, like water that can eventually purify itself through natural processes such as filtration and purification, evil has the potential to cleanse itself of its negative influences over time. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the cyclical nature of evil, implying that even after causing harm and corruption, evil has the ability to dissipate and restore a sense of clarity or purity.

In analyzing this quote, it is important to consider the perspective from which Samuel Butler, the poet, was expressing these thoughts. Given the historical context of the 19th century, Butler may have been influenced by the social and moral challenges of his time, such as the impact of industrialization, inequality, and ethical dilemmas. His analogy may have been a reflection on the pervasive presence of evil in society and the potential for redemption or renewal.

In conclusion, Samuel Butler's quote "Evil is like water, it abounds, is cheap, soon fouls, but runs itself clear of taint" offers a compelling comparison between the nature of evil and the characteristics of water. Through this analogy, Butler prompts us to consider the pervasive, accessible, corrupting, and ultimately cyclical nature of evil. This thought-provoking quote encourages reflection on the complexities of morality, the challenges of confronting evil, and the potential for redemption and renewal.