Meaning: This quote is from the poem "The Walrus and the Carpenter" which is found in Lewis Carroll's famous novel "Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There." The book was published in 1871 and is a sequel to Carroll's equally well-known work, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." The poem is recited by Tweedledee to Alice and narrates the story of a walrus and a carpenter who trick a group of oysters into following them, only to consume them in the end.

The quote, "'The time has come,' the walrus said, 'to talk of many things: of shoes and ships - and sealing wax - of cabbages and kings,'" is a whimsical and nonsensical statement that captures the essence of Carroll's writing. The poem, in general, is known for its absurdity and wordplay. The walrus's declaration seems to suggest that it's time to discuss a wide range of topics, regardless of how unrelated or inconsequential they may be.

Carroll's writing often contains elements of satire, and this poem is no exception. The absurdity of the walrus's statement can be interpreted as a commentary on the nonsensical nature of some conversations and the tendency of individuals to fill their speech with irrelevant or meaningless topics. The poem also reflects Carroll's fondness for creating imaginary and fantastical worlds, where language and logic are bent and twisted.

"The Walrus and the Carpenter" is a prime example of Carroll's mastery of wordplay and his ability to craft seemingly simple verses that contain deeper meanings. The poem has been analyzed and interpreted in various ways, with some readers considering it to be a metaphor for political or social issues, while others view it simply as a clever and entertaining piece of nonsense verse.

Lewis Carroll, whose real name was Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, was a renowned mathematician and logician in addition to being a writer. His works often contain mathematical and logical puzzles, and "Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There" is no exception. The book is known for its use of wordplay, puzzles, and riddles, all of which contribute to its enduring popularity and appeal.

Carroll's unique and imaginative writing style has made his works timeless classics that continue to be beloved by readers of all ages. The whimsical and absurd nature of "The Walrus and the Carpenter" and the broader themes present in "Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There" have cemented Carroll's place as a master of children's literature and a significant figure in the realm of literary nonsense.

In conclusion, the quote "'The time has come,' the walrus said, 'to talk of many things: of shoes and ships - and sealing wax - of cabbages and kings,'" captures the essence of Lewis Carroll's playful and nonsensical writing style. It exemplifies his ability to create whimsical and thought-provoking literature that continues to captivate readers and scholars alike. Through his use of wordplay, satire, and imagination, Carroll has left an indelible mark on the world of literature, and his works remain as enchanting and relevant today as they were when first penned.