Darmok is a contender for greatest Trek episode ever. As someone who studies literature and mythology and language, the idea that metaphor as the central basis for a form of communication is as beautiful as it is fascinating. What really makes this episode work is Paul Winfield as Dathon because he totally owns this role with empathy and as if he really was part of an alien race. The conclusion when he sacrificed himself just to open communication was a fantastic touch and places him at the same level of greatness as a captain as Picard. All around perfect episode and a great example of Darmok and Jalad at Tanagra.