Meaning: This quote by Robert Fripp, a renowned musician and founder of the progressive rock band King Crimson, is a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of music and the potential for contrasting elements to coexist and interact. In essence, Fripp is metaphorically comparing the dynamic and diverse nature of music to a railway station, where different musical elements or styles can operate independently at various ends, only to converge or diverge in the middle.

The quote encapsulates the concept of musical diversity and the potential for contrasting musical expressions to coexist and interact within a shared space. It embodies the idea that music, like a railway station, can accommodate different "orchestras" or musical components, each contributing to a larger, interconnected musical experience.

In a broader sense, Fripp's quote can be interpreted as a celebration of musical diversity and the potential for disparate elements to coexist harmoniously, reflecting the rich tapestry of musical expression and the myriad of styles and genres that make up the musical landscape.

From a technical standpoint, the quote also alludes to the concept of musical polyphony, where multiple independent musical lines or voices operate concurrently, creating a complex and intricate musical texture. The notion of these musical elements "meeting, or not, depending" emphasizes the unpredictable and dynamic nature of musical interaction, where disparate elements may converge in a harmonious blend or diverge in a contrasting juxtaposition.

Furthermore, Fripp's quote can be seen as a reflection of the role of space and environment in shaping musical experiences. The railway station serves as a metaphor for the physical and sonic space within which music unfolds, highlighting the potential for different musical expressions to interact and intersect within a shared acoustic environment.

In practical terms, the quote also speaks to the concept of musical juxtaposition and contrast, suggesting that the simultaneous presence of contrasting musical elements can create a compelling and multi-dimensional sonic experience. This idea aligns with the principles of musical composition and arrangement, where the deliberate juxtaposition of contrasting musical elements can yield evocative and engaging results.

Ultimately, Fripp's quote serves as a profound reflection on the dynamic, diverse, and interconnected nature of music. It encapsulates the potential for disparate musical elements to coexist, interact, and converge within a shared sonic space, reflecting the richness and complexity of the musical experience.