Life Quote by Alexander Pushkin
““I saw Derzhavin only once in my life but shall never forget that occasion. It was in 1815 at a public examination in the Lyceum. When we boys learned Derzhavin was coming, all of us grew excited. Delvig went out on the stairs to wait for him and kiss his hand, the hand that had written 'The Waterfall.' Derzhavin arrived. Derzhavin entered the vestibule, and Delvig heard him ask the janitor: 'Where is the privy here, my good fellow?' This prosaic question disenchanted Delvig, who canceled his intent and returned to the reception hall. Delvig told me the story with wonderful bonhomie and good humor.””
About This Quote
Source Memoir: Pushkin’s letters, 1815, Lyceum examination
A brief, humorous anecdote showing how a celebrated poet’s ordinary request humbled a younger poet’s admiration.
In simple terms: Even great artists have mundane concerns.
Key Takeaway
Remember that fame does not erase humanity.
Themes
humility
celebration
mentorship
Mood
amused
reflective
Type
anecdotal
historical
When to use this quote
- school events
- literary gatherings
- public appearances
- teaching moments
Key Concepts
literary history
humanity
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does seeing a hero’s ordinary side change your perception?
- What does this reveal about the nature of fame?
A Different Perspective
The story may romanticize the encounter, overlooking deeper power dynamics.
![“Ecstasy is a glass full of tea and a piece of sugar in the mouth." [From: 19 Lessons On Tea]” quote by Alexander Pushkin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bb2/alexander-pushkin-8623_ecstasy_ecstasy-is-a-glass-full-of-tea-and-a-pie_16054.jpg)
