Meaning: The quote you provided is from Robert Fitzgerald, a renowned American poet, and translator. In this quote, Fitzgerald seems to be reflecting on his relationship with the French language and how it differs from his experience with Latin and Greek.

Fitzgerald was known for his translations of classical works, especially Greek and Latin literature. His translations are celebrated for their poetic quality and deep understanding of the original texts. It is evident that Fitzgerald had a deep connection with the classical languages, as he mentions Latin and Greek in relation to the French language in the quote.

When Fitzgerald speaks of the French language as "which I understood and spoke, however imperfectly, and read in great quantities," he seems to be acknowledging his proficiency in the language while also recognizing that there is still room for improvement. This humility and acknowledgment of imperfection are characteristic of a lifelong learner, which Fitzgerald undoubtedly was as a translator and poet.

The phrase "the matter I suppose was slightly different from either Latin or Greek" suggests that Fitzgerald perceives a distinction between his experience with French compared to Latin and Greek. This could be interpreted in several ways. It may refer to the differences in the structure and grammar of the languages, the cultural and historical contexts in which they developed, or the literary traditions associated with each language. As a translator, Fitzgerald would have been acutely aware of these nuances and divergences between languages.

Fitzgerald's statement also hints at the unique challenges and rewards of engaging with different languages. Each language carries its own history, nuances, and idiosyncrasies, and mastering them to the level of being able to understand and speak, albeit imperfectly, requires dedication and passion. In the case of Fitzgerald, his deep engagement with the French language would have expanded his literary and cultural horizons, allowing him to access a wealth of French literature and thought that may have influenced his own writing and translation work.

It is worth noting that Fitzgerald's reflections on language and translation are particularly significant in the context of his work as a translator. His translations of ancient epics such as the "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" are considered masterful, capturing the essence of the original works while infusing them with a poetic sensibility that resonates with contemporary readers. His ability to navigate between languages and cultures, as suggested in the quote, sheds light on the complexities of translation and the profound understanding required to convey the depth and beauty of literary works across linguistic boundaries.

In conclusion, Robert Fitzgerald's quote offers a glimpse into his multilingual and literary world. It speaks to the challenges and joys of engaging with different languages, highlighting the distinctiveness of the French language in his own experience as a translator and poet. Fitzgerald's words resonate with anyone who has grappled with the intricacies of language, and they provide valuable insight into the profound connections that can be forged through multilingualism and translation.