Meaning: The quote "To live is like to love - all reason is against it, and all healthy instinct for it" by Samuel Butler, a 19th-century poet and author, captures the complex and often contradictory nature of both life and love. This thought-provoking quote invites us to explore the intersection of reason and instinct, and how these elements shape our experiences of living and loving.

When considering the first part of the quote, "To live is like to love - all reason is against it," we are confronted with the idea that both life and love defy rational explanation. Life itself is a mysterious and unpredictable journey, often defying the constraints of logic and reason. Similarly, love, with its emotional intensity and often irrational nature, can confound the rational mind. From a philosophical standpoint, this part of the quote suggests that the essence of life and love transcends mere rational understanding, delving into the realm of human experience and emotion.

On the other hand, the second part of the quote, "and all healthy instinct for it," introduces the notion that despite reason being against it, there exists a natural inclination or instinct to both live and love. This suggests that while reason may present obstacles or challenges to embracing life and love, our innate human instincts compel us to pursue these fundamental aspects of existence. The term "healthy instinct" implies that this inclination towards life and love is not only natural but also beneficial for our well-being and fulfillment.

Samuel Butler's quote can be interpreted in various ways, offering insight into the complexities of human existence. One interpretation is that living and loving often involve taking risks and defying logic, as both can lead to joy, fulfillment, and personal growth. The contrast between reason and instinct in the quote also highlights the ongoing internal struggle between our rational thoughts and our emotional impulses, as we navigate the complexities of life and relationships.

From a literary perspective, the quote demonstrates Butler's skill in succinctly capturing profound and thought-provoking ideas. It invites readers to contemplate the paradoxes inherent in the human experience and to reflect on the interplay between reason and instinct in our lives.

In conclusion, Samuel Butler's quote "To live is like to love - all reason is against it, and all healthy instinct for it" encapsulates the enigmatic and paradoxical nature of life and love. It challenges us to consider the tension between reason and instinct in our experiences of living and loving, and invites us to contemplate the profound complexities of human existence. This quote serves as a compelling reminder of the intricate interplay between reason and emotion, and the enduring human quest for understanding and embracing the mysteries of life and love.

Overall, the quote offers a rich and multifaceted exploration of the human condition, prompting introspection and contemplation of the fundamental aspects of our existence.