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Engineering, like poetry, is an attempt to approach…

“Engineering, like poetry, is an attempt to approach perfection. And engineers, like poets, are seldom completely satisfied with their creations. They notice, even if no one else does, the world that is not quite le mot juste, or the hairline crack that blemishes the structure.” quote by Henry Petroski
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“Engineering, like poetry, is an attempt to approach perfection. And engineers, like poets, are seldom completely satisfied with their creations. They notice, even if no one else does, the world that is not quite le mot juste, or the hairline crack that blemishes the structure.”

Henry Petroski

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Engineering, like poetry, constantly seeks perfection but never fully attains it, noticing subtle flaws.

In simple terms: Engineers strive for perfect design.

Key Takeaway

Embrace continuous improvement.

Themes

engineering perfection creativity

Mood

analytical inspired

Type

philosophical technical

When to use this quote

  • product development
  • quality assurance
  • design reviews

Key Concepts

design philosophy attention to detail continuous improvement

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle design imperfections?
  • What drives relentless refinement?
A Different Perspective

Perfection is unattainable.

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