As the component parts of all new machines may be said to…
![“As the component parts of all new machines may be said to be old[,] it is a nice discriminating judgment, which discovers that a particular arrangement will produce a new and desired effect. ... Therefore, the mechanic should sit down among levers, screws, wedges, wheels, etc. like a poet among…” quote by Robert Fulton](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/570/robert-fulton-57049_alphabet_as-the-component-parts-of-all-new-machin_1680664.jpg)
“As the component parts of all new machines may be said to be old[,] it is a nice discriminating judgment, which discovers that a particular arrangement will produce a new and desired effect. ... Therefore, the mechanic should sit down among levers, screws, wedges, wheels, etc. like a poet among the letters of the alphabet, considering them as the exhibition of his thoughts; in which a new arrangement transmits a new idea to the world.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
New configurations of existing parts can create novel effects, so innovators should treat components creatively like a poet with letters.
In simple terms: Reusing old parts in fresh ways yields new ideas.
Key Takeaway
Arrange existing elements creatively.
Themes
innovation
creativity
engineering
Mood
inspired
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- product design
- R&D
- inventor brainstorming
- educational workshops
Key Concepts
systems thinking
emergent design
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you recombine familiar tools for breakthrough?
- What limits arise from relying only on existing parts?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the need for truly new materials or technologies.