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I am only a footnote, but proud of the footnote I have…

“I am only a footnote, but proud of the footnote I have become. My subsequent work on eliciting principles and developing the theory of interface design, so that many people will be able to do what I did is probably also footnote-worthy. In looking back at this turn-of-the-century period, the rise…” quote by Jef Raskin
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“I am only a footnote, but proud of the footnote I have become. My subsequent work on eliciting principles and developing the theory of interface design, so that many people will be able to do what I did is probably also footnote-worthy. In looking back at this turn-of-the-century period, the rise of a worldwide network will be seen as the most significant part of the computer revolution.”

Jef Raskin

About This Quote

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

The speaker sees themselves as a modest contributor whose work on interface design will enable many others to achieve similar breakthroughs.

In simple terms: Modest contribution that empowers others.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility and share knowledge.

Themes

humility design legacy

Mood

reflective proud

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • software development
  • education
  • open‑source projects
  • tech mentorship

Key Concepts

human‑computer interaction knowledge transfer

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can your work be made more accessible?
  • What does “footnote” mean to you?
A Different Perspective

Impact may be limited if not widely adopted.

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