Meaning: The quote "To express to you in mere words, our personal feelings on this occasion you must know to be impossible, and particularly so for one who normally has to describe only things outside himself." by Melvin Calvin, a scientist, reflects the challenge of conveying personal emotions through language, especially for individuals who are accustomed to describing external phenomena rather than their internal experiences.

Melvin Calvin was an American biochemist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1961 for his research on the carbon dioxide assimilation in plants. As a scientist, Calvin was deeply engaged in the objective study of natural processes and the communication of empirical findings. His quote suggests a recognition of the limitations of language when it comes to articulating personal sentiments, particularly for someone who is more accustomed to articulating scientific observations.

Calvin's statement captures the struggle that many individuals face when attempting to express their emotions verbally. Language, while a powerful tool for communication, often falls short in capturing the depth and complexity of human feelings. This is especially challenging for individuals who are more comfortable describing external, observable phenomena, as the realm of personal emotions may seem elusive and difficult to articulate.

The quote also highlights the inherent subjectivity of personal feelings. While scientific descriptions are often based on observable facts and empirical evidence, personal emotions are deeply internal and subjective experiences. As a result, trying to convey these emotions through words can feel like an insurmountable task, particularly for those more accustomed to dealing with concrete, external concepts.

Furthermore, the quote may also allude to the inherent ineffability of certain emotional experiences. Some feelings simply defy linguistic expression, as they may be too nuanced, profound, or abstract to be encapsulated in words. This challenge is not only a personal one but a universal aspect of the human experience, as individuals grapple with finding adequate language to communicate their innermost emotions.

In a broader sense, Calvin's quote speaks to the complexities of human communication and the inherent limitations of language. It reminds us that while words are a powerful means of expression, they are not always sufficient for capturing the full depth and breadth of human experience, especially when it comes to personal emotions.

In conclusion, Melvin Calvin's quote encapsulates the difficulty of expressing personal feelings through language, particularly for individuals who are more accustomed to describing external phenomena. It underscores the inherent challenges and limitations of verbal communication when it comes to conveying the complexity and subjectivity of human emotions. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of the ineffable nature of certain emotional experiences and the universal struggle to articulate personal sentiments through words.