Any TNG purist will know of Captain Jean Luc Picard's experience with the Children of Tama when he is captured, then trapped on a planet with an alien captain (Darmok himself!) who speaks a metaphorical language incompatible with the universal translator. They must learn to communicate with each other before a deadly planetary beast overwhelms them.
When the roaring creature on the planet approached them, Picard understands that the Tamarians communicate by citing example – by metaphor.
Darmok and Jalad on the ocean represents new friendship and understanding gained through a shared challenge.
From February 2025