"I like terra firma; the more firma, the less terra"

This quote by George S. Kaufman is a humorous way of expressing a choice for stability and security. By saying he likes terra firma, he is expressing a desire for a solid structure. The more firma, or firmness, he desires, the less terra, or land, he needs. This could be analyzed as a metaphor for life, suggesting that the more protected and stable an individual is, the less they require to rely on external sources for support. It could likewise be analyzed as a commentary on the value of having a strong foundation in order to develop an effective life. Eventually, this quote is a pointer that having a strong structure is necessary for attaining success and joy.