"There is still a difference between something and nothing, but it is purely geometrical and there is nothing behind the geometry"

The quote by Martin Gardner, "There is still a distinction between something and nothing, however it is simply geometrical and there is absolutely nothing behind the geometry", provides a profound commentary on the nature of reality, perception, and the essence of existence. At its core, this declaration recommends that the distinction in between "something" and "nothing" is not as specific or considerable as we may traditionally view. Rather, it implies that this distinction is basically a matter of point of view, created by the ways we define and comprehend space and kind-- captured here under the umbrella of "geometry.".

Geometry, in this context, can be taken both literally and metaphorically. Literally, geometry deals with the properties and relationships of points, lines, surface areas, and solids. If something's difference from absolutely nothing is "purely geometrical", this may imply that it rests upon the spatial or structural arrangements, such as distance and shape. For instance, the presence of a things (something) versus the lack of it (nothing) can be explained in regards to spatial measurements, positioning, or plan.

On a metaphorical or philosophical level, geometry here may represent the structures, constructs, or cognitive models through which we analyze the world. From this perspective, Gardner appears to suggest that our conceptions of presence and lack, presence and space, are largely depending on the structural methods we utilize to analyze and classify our experiences.

The latter part of the quote, "there is nothing behind the geometry", highlights a sense of nihilism or existential hesitation. It posits that beyond the frameworks and designs (geometry) we use, there may be no deeper, fundamental meaning or substance. This viewpoint aligns with certain philosophical viewpoints that question the objective presence of intrinsic meaning or question the nature of being and truth, indicating that what we think of as real is simply a by-product of our analyses and intellectual structures.

Hence, Gardner's quote welcomes reflection on the foundations of our knowledge and belief systems, challenging us to think about whether the differences we view are intrinsic or simply the outcome of how we choose to determine and represent the world.