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To expect that the intricacies of science will be pierced…

“To expect that the intricacies of science will be pierced by a careless glance, or the eminences of fame ascended without labour, is to expect a peculiar privilege, a power denied to the rest of mankind; but to suppose that the maze is inscrutable to diligence, or the heights inaccessible to…” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“To expect that the intricacies of science will be pierced by a careless glance, or the eminences of fame ascended without labour, is to expect a peculiar privilege, a power denied to the rest of mankind; but to suppose that the maze is inscrutable to diligence, or the heights inaccessible to perseverance, is to submit tamely to the tyranny of fancy, and enchain the mind in voluntary shackles.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

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

Hard work and perseverance are the only true paths to achievement; relying on luck or talent alone is folly.

In simple terms: Success requires effort, not just talent.

Key Takeaway

Work diligently toward goals.

Themes

effort perseverance realism

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • career advancement
  • academic study
  • skill mastery
  • entrepreneurship

Key Concepts

Stoicism work ethic

Questions to Reflect On

  • What goals have you been relying on luck for?
  • How can you add disciplined effort to your pursuits?
A Different Perspective

Talent without effort rarely yields lasting results.

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