Meaning: The quote "That helped me to keep in touch with myself and to keep in touch with this really quite extraordinary language and literature into which I had pushed a little way" by Robert Fitzgerald, the renowned American poet, and translator, reflects his deep connection with language and literature. Fitzgerald is best known for his translations of ancient epics, such as "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey," and his quote captures the essence of his profound relationship with the written word.

Fitzgerald's words suggest that his engagement with language and literature was not merely an intellectual pursuit but a means of self-discovery and introspection. He implies that delving into the depths of literature allowed him to maintain a connection with his inner self, suggesting that the act of reading and translating provided him with a profound sense of grounding and self-awareness.

Moreover, Fitzgerald's reference to the "extraordinary language and literature" into which he had delved highlights the transformative power of literary works. It denotes the awe and reverence he held for the texts he encountered, indicating that his interaction with these works was not merely academic but deeply personal and emotionally resonant.

Fitzgerald's choice of words also conveys a sense of humility and wonder. He acknowledges that he had only pushed "a little way" into the vast expanse of language and literature, indicating that he viewed his journey as an ongoing exploration rather than a destination. This humility reflects his understanding of the inexhaustible depth and richness of literary works, as well as his continual commitment to learning and growing through his engagement with them.

In the context of his career as a translator, Fitzgerald's quote sheds light on the intricate process of interpreting and conveying the essence of a text from one language to another. It suggests that his work as a translator was not merely a technical exercise but a deeply personal endeavor through which he sought to preserve the essence and beauty of the original works while making them accessible to a broader audience.

Furthermore, Fitzgerald's quote carries broader implications for the role of literature in our lives. It speaks to the profound impact that language and literature can have on an individual's sense of identity, introspection, and connection to the world. It emphasizes the ability of literary works to serve as a mirror through which individuals can explore and understand themselves, as well as a window through which they can gain insight into different cultures, perspectives, and human experiences.

In conclusion, Robert Fitzgerald's quote encapsulates the profound and multifaceted nature of his relationship with language and literature. It reflects his deep personal connection with the written word, the transformative power of literary works, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery and exploration that is inherent in engaging with language and literature. Through his words, Fitzgerald invites readers to contemplate the profound impact of literature on our inner lives and the enduring significance of the written word in shaping our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.