Meaning: The quote "At the side of the everlasting why, is a yes, and a yes, and a yes" by E. Forster, the English novelist, encapsulates a profound and enigmatic sentiment that has resonated with readers and thinkers for generations. This quote invites contemplation on the nature of existence, the pursuit of meaning, and the fundamental affirmations that underpin our understanding of the world and our place within it.

E.M. Forster, best known for his novels such as "A Room with a View," "Howards End," and "A Passage to India," was a writer deeply attuned to the complexities of human experience and the intricacies of relationships, both personal and societal. His exploration of the human condition often delved into themes of connection, understanding, and the search for truth and authenticity in a world fraught with uncertainties.

In the context of the quote, "the everlasting why" can be interpreted as a representation of the perennial questions that have preoccupied humanity throughout history. These questions may encompass inquiries into the nature of existence, the meaning of life, the existence of suffering, the pursuit of knowledge, and the quest for transcendence. The "everlasting why" evokes a sense of timeless and universal inquiry that lies at the heart of human consciousness.

Contrasted against this eternal questioning is the repeated affirmation of "yes." The recurrence of this affirmative response suggests a resolute and unwavering affirmation of life, of existence, and of the affirmative forces that counterbalance the existential queries. It implies an acknowledgment of the inherent value and beauty of life, despite its enigmas and challenges. The multiple "yeses" serve to emphasize and reinforce this affirmation, creating a sense of insistence and conviction.

One interpretation of this quote is that it encapsulates the coexistence of existential questioning and affirmative acceptance. It acknowledges the perennial human tendency to seek understanding and meaning while simultaneously affirming the intrinsic value and significance of life itself. In this sense, "the everlasting why" and the repeated "yes" are not mutually exclusive but rather exist in a symbiotic relationship, reflecting the complex and multifaceted nature of the human experience.

Furthermore, the structure of the quote, with its repetition of "yes," conveys a sense of rhythm and cadence, almost like a mantra or a meditation. This rhythmic quality adds to the contemplative and meditative nature of the quote, inviting readers to dwell on its meaning and to consider their own relationship to the profound questions it encapsulates.

E.M. Forster's quote has the capacity to inspire introspection and contemplation, prompting individuals to consider their own responses to life's fundamental questions. It encourages a nuanced perspective that embraces both the uncertainties and the affirmations inherent in the human experience. As such, this quote continues to resonate as a powerful expression of the paradoxes and complexities of existence, inviting readers to explore the interplay between questioning and affirmation in their own lives.