Meaning: This quote is a witty and pointed remark about Ian Paisley, a prominent figure in Northern Irish politics, made by John Hume, another significant figure in the region. The quote reflects the political and social context of Northern Ireland, as well as the complex and often adversarial relationships between key figures in the region's history.

Ian Paisley was a staunch unionist and a prominent figure in Northern Irish politics for decades. He was known for his fiery and often controversial rhetoric, particularly in his opposition to any form of compromise with Irish republicanism. In contrast, John Hume was a key figure in the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) and was a leading advocate for peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

The quote suggests that Ian Paisley is so resistant to compromise and so vehement in his opposition that he would be left speechless if the word "No" were removed from the English language. This implies that Paisley's default response to any proposal or suggestion is to reject it outright, without consideration or negotiation. It captures the perception of Paisley as an uncompromising and unyielding figure in Northern Irish politics.

The quote also speaks to the broader dynamics of conflict and negotiation in Northern Ireland. The region has been marked by deep divisions along political, religious, and national lines, and the struggle for power and influence has often played out in a confrontational and divisive manner. The use of humor in the quote serves to highlight the absurdity of such entrenched positions and the challenges they pose to progress and reconciliation.

Furthermore, the quote reflects the personal dynamic between Ian Paisley and John Hume. The two men were on opposite sides of the political spectrum, with Paisley representing hardline unionism and Hume advocating for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Their interactions and clashes were emblematic of the broader political struggles in Northern Ireland, and the quote captures the adversarial nature of their relationship.

In addition to its specific relevance to Northern Irish politics, the quote also speaks to a broader truth about the nature of political discourse and negotiation. It underscores the importance of dialogue, compromise, and the willingness to engage with opposing viewpoints in order to make progress and find solutions to complex problems.

Overall, this quote by John Hume provides a succinct and insightful commentary on the political landscape of Northern Ireland, the dynamics of conflict and negotiation, and the personal interactions between key figures in the region. It encapsulates the challenges and complexities of addressing deeply entrenched divisions and the need for open, constructive dialogue in the pursuit of peace and reconciliation.