What we’re trying to do is write cricket bats, so that…
![“What we’re trying to do is write cricket bats, so that when we throw up an idea and give it a little knock, it might … travel … ([He] picks up the script.) Now, what we’ve got here is a lump of wood of roughly the same shape trying to be a cricket bat, and if you hit a ball with it, the ball would…” quote by Tom Stoppard](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/a51/tom-stoppard-437_cricket_what-we-re-trying-to-do-is-write-cricket_2392216.png)
““What we’re trying to do is write cricket bats, so that when we throw up an idea and give it a little knock, it might … travel … ([He] picks up the script.) Now, what we’ve got here is a lump of wood of roughly the same shape trying to be a cricket bat, and if you hit a ball with it, the ball would travel about ten feet and you will drop the bat and dance about shouting ‘Ouch!’ with your hands stuck into your armpits. (indicating the cricket bat) This isn’t better because someone says it’s better, or because there’s a conspiracy by the MCC to keep cudgels out of Lords. It’s better because it’s better.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A metaphor about ideas that seem promising but fail when tested, highlighting the gap between concept and practical outcome.
In simple terms: Ideas may look good on paper but flop in reality.
Key Takeaway
Test ideas early and realistically.
Themes
creativity
innovation
failure
reality
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- product development
- software design
- creative brainstorming
- startup pitches
Key Concepts
conceptual design
prototype testing
expectation vs outcome
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you validate an idea before full commitment?
- What signs indicate an idea is impractical?
A Different Perspective
Ideas may succeed with iteration, not just initial enthusiasm.