Can not Quote by Herman Melville
“He who has never failed somewhere, that man can notbe great. Failure is the true test of greatness. And if it be said, that continual success is a proof that a man wisely knows his powers,it is only to be added, that, in that case, he knows them to be small.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Moby-Dick by Herman Melville, 1851
Greatness is proven through failure; continual success may hide limited self‑awareness.
In simple terms: Failure shows true greatness; constant success can mask small abilities.
Embrace failure as a growth test.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- creative projects
- personal development
- leadership
- entrepreneurship
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What failures have taught you about your strengths?
- How can you balance confidence with humility?
Success alone may not reveal true potential or hidden limitations.