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You are a clever little monster,' said the Doctor, tossing…

“You are a clever little monster,' said the Doctor, tossing off another cognac and placing the glass upon the table with a click. 'A diabolically clever little monster.' 'That is what I hoped you would realize, Doctor,' said Steerpike. 'But haven't all ambitious people soemthing of the monstrous…” quote by Mervyn Peake
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““You are a clever little monster,' said the Doctor, tossing off another cognac and placing the glass upon the table with a click. 'A diabolically clever little monster.' 'That is what I hoped you would realize, Doctor,' said Steerpike. 'But haven't all ambitious people soemthing of the monstrous about them? You, sir, for instance, if you will forgive me, are a little bit monstrous.' 'But, my poor youth, said Prunesquallor, beginning to pace the room, 'there is not the minutest molecule of ambition in my anatomy, monstrous though it may appear to you, ha, ha, ha!””

Mervyn Peake

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 highlights the fine line between brilliance and monstrosity, suggesting that ambition can be both creative and terrifying.

In simple terms: Brilliance can seem monstrous when mixed with ambition.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the dual nature of ambition.

Themes

ambition identity duality

Mood

reflective introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • artistic creation
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

human nature ego creativity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you admire brilliance that feels threatening?
  • How can you balance ambition with humility?
A Different Perspective

Ambition may be destructive if unchecked.

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