Meaning: This quote by Edward Fitzgerald, a renowned poet, encapsulates the enigmatic nature of death and the afterlife. It reflects on the mystery of what lies beyond the threshold of mortality and the profound curiosity that humans have about the journey that awaits them after passing through the "door of Darkness."

The opening line, "Strange, is it not?" immediately captures the sense of bewilderment and wonder that often accompanies contemplation of the afterlife. Fitzgerald acknowledges the peculiarity of the fact that countless individuals have crossed the threshold of death, yet none have returned to enlighten the living about the path they have traversed. This realization prompts a deep sense of introspection and philosophical inquiry into the nature of existence and the ultimate fate that awaits every human being.

The imagery of passing "the door of Darkness through" evokes a sense of transition from the known realm of the living into the unknown realm of the afterlife. The metaphorical use of "Darkness" conveys the mysterious and intangible nature of what lies beyond, shrouded in uncertainty and beyond the grasp of human comprehension. This imagery serves to highlight the inherent enigma of death and the insurmountable barrier it represents for the living in their quest for understanding.

The subsequent line, "Not one returns to tell us of the Road," emphasizes the absence of firsthand accounts from those who have experienced the journey into the afterlife. This absence of tangible knowledge about the nature of the afterlife intensifies the sense of mystery and intrigue surrounding the ultimate destination of the human soul. It also underscores the fundamental human desire for enlightenment and comprehension of the existential questions that transcend the boundaries of mortal life.

The concluding line, "Which to discover we must travel too," imparts a sense of inevitability and shared destiny in the human experience. The use of "we" unites all individuals in the common trajectory towards the unknown, emphasizing the universal nature of mortality and the collective quest to unravel the mysteries of existence. The notion of traveling a road that must be discovered implies a journey fraught with uncertainty, yet one that is an essential part of the human experience.

Fitzgerald's contemplative verse prompts readers to ponder the profound questions surrounding mortality, the afterlife, and the elusive nature of existence. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent human fascination with the unknown and the enduring quest for enlightenment in the face of life's most profound mysteries.

In conclusion, Edward Fitzgerald's quote encapsulates the enigmatic and thought-provoking nature of the human experience, particularly in relation to mortality and the afterlife. It resonates with individuals on a deep, existential level, prompting introspection and contemplation of the ultimate journey that awaits every human being. Fitzgerald's eloquent verse serves as a testament to the enduring human quest for understanding and meaning in the face of life's most profound mysteries.