I understand the intention was to create a DML interface for DDL, but I dont really understand why. I guess batch DDL operations are a little easier with meta, but it seems like a lot of work for relatively little gain. There is also the issue that expensive DDL operations (e.g. ALTER TABLE) are hidden behind a DML interface potentially making it easier to shoot yourself in the foot.

Were there problems higher up in the web stack that required the functionality meta provides?