Meaning: The quote "'Extremes meet', as the whiting said with its tail in its mouth" is a thought-provoking and enigmatic statement attributed to Thomas Hood, a renowned English poet and humorist of the 19th century. The quote is taken from his poem "The Plea of the Midsummer Fairies," which was published in 1827. The line is part of a larger body of work that explores themes of paradox, contradiction, and the interconnectedness of seemingly opposed or contradictory elements.

In this particular quote, the idea of "extremes meeting" is presented through the whimsical image of a whiting with its tail in its mouth. The imagery evokes a sense of circularity, unity, and the convergence of opposing forces. It suggests that even the most disparate or contradictory elements can come together in unexpected ways, blurring the boundaries between them and creating a sense of harmony or synthesis.

The concept of "extremes meeting" has been a recurring theme in literature, philosophy, and art throughout history. It reflects the human fascination with paradox and contradiction, as well as the recognition that reality is often complex and multifaceted. The quote encourages contemplation of the interconnectedness of diverse experiences, emotions, and ideas, challenging the notion of absolute opposition or separation between extremes.

The metaphor of the whiting with its tail in its mouth also invites interpretation in the context of self-reference and circularity. It can be seen as a playful nod to the idea of recursion, where a concept contains a smaller version of itself, creating a loop that defies linear logic. This self-referential quality adds an additional layer of depth to the quote, prompting reflection on the nature of language, perception, and the inherent circularity of certain phenomena.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted in the context of unity and balance. The image of the whiting with its tail in its mouth suggests a sense of completion and equilibrium, as if the extremes have come full circle and found a point of convergence. This notion of balance and integration has profound implications for how we understand the relationships between opposites, such as light and dark, good and evil, or love and hate. It challenges the notion of absolute dichotomies and invites a more nuanced, holistic perspective on the complexities of human experience.

In conclusion, Thomas Hood's quote "'Extremes meet', as the whiting said with its tail in its mouth" encapsulates a rich and thought-provoking exploration of paradox, unity, and interconnectedness. Through its whimsical imagery and enigmatic language, the quote challenges conventional notions of opposition and separation, inviting contemplation of the ways in which extremes can converge and coexist. It serves as a reminder of the complexity and richness of human experience, prompting us to embrace the inherent contradictions and interconnectedness of life.