Art Quote by Arthur Schopenhaur
““The effectiveness of an author turns chiefly upon his getting the reputation that he should be read. But by practicing various arts, by the operation of chance, and by certain natural affinities, this reputation is quickly won by a hundred worthless people: while a worthy writer may come by it very slowly and tardily. The former possess friends to help them; for the rabble is always a numerous body which holds well together. The latter has nothing but enemies; because intellectual superiority is everywhere and under all circumstances the most hateful thing in the world, and especially to bunglers in the same line of work, who want to pass for something themselves. This being so, it is a prime condition for doing any great work--any work which is to outlive its own age, that a man pay no heed to his contemporaries, their views and opinons, and the praise or blame which they bestow.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Essays on Art and Literature, 1851
Reputation often favors prolific but mediocre writers, while truly great authors gain recognition slowly and face opposition.
In simple terms: Fame can be misleading; true merit may be ignored.
Key Takeaway
Value substance over popularity.
Themes
reputation
merit
literary criticism
social dynamics
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- publishing
- academic circles
- media coverage
Key Concepts
cultural capital
bias
intellectual elitism
Questions to Reflect On
- Why does society elevate quantity over quality?
- How can genuine talent be recognized?
A Different Perspective
Great work may be misunderstood or dismissed.
