In the book "A Breath of Snow and Ashes" by Diana Gabaldon, the phrase highlights the profound impact of malt, suggesting that it offers deeper insight or justification for understanding the complexities of life and faith than even the works of the poet Milton. This comparison emphasizes the power of simple, everyday experiences to convey profound truths and understandings about existence and divinity.
The quote suggests that literature and poetry, while valuable, may not fully encompass the human condition's intricacies. Instead, malt, a humble element of brewing, serves as a metaphor for the essential truths we experience in our lives. It reflects on how common things can resonate more deeply with our understanding of God and morality than grand poetic expressions.