Art Quote by Ethel Smyth
“No doubt other writers have often put a thing more brilliantly, more subtly than even a very cunning artist in words can hope to emulate, a supreme phrase being a bit of luck that only happens now and then. And inasmuch as the condiments and secret travail of human nature are always the same, and that certain psychological moments must ever and ever recur, what more tempting than to pin down such a moment with the blow of a borrowed hammer?”
About This Quote
Source Book: Unknown literary criticism, early 20th century
The quote suggests that great, often arise from chance and that human nature repeats psychological moments, making it tempting to capture them using borrowed ideas.
In simple terms: Great phrases are lucky, human moments repeat, we copy them.
Key Takeaway
Recognize patterns, but seek originality.
Themes
creativity
luck
imitation
human nature
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
observational
critical
When to use this quote
- writing
- advertising
- public speaking
- teaching
- storytelling
Key Concepts
psychology
literary criticism
originality
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance inspiration with originality?
- When does borrowing become plagiarism?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on copying can stifle true innovation.
