Capacity Quote by Jane Austen
“There seems almost a general wish of descrying the capacity and undervaluing the labour of the novelist, and of slighting the performances which have only genius, wit, and taste to recommend them.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Literary Criticism, 19th Century, null
The quote critiques how critics undervalue the writer’s effort, focusing only on innate talent rather than hard work.
In simple terms: Critics often ignore the labor behind creative work.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and appreciate the effort behind artistic achievements.
Themes
criticism
art
labor
talent
recognition
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
literary
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- book reviews
- academic analysis
- publishing decisions
- literary awards
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
creative process
valuation
authorial effort
Questions to Reflect On
- How does acknowledging labor change our view of art?
- What responsibilities do critics have to highlight effort?
A Different Perspective
Some argue talent alone determines success, overlooking systemic barriers.
![“Everybody is taken in at some period or another. [...] In marriage especially. [...] There is not one in a hundred of either sex, who is not taken in when they marry. Look where I will, I see that it is so; and I feel that it must be so, when I consider that it is, of all transactions, the one in…” quote by Jane Austen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/37a/jane-austen-39_marriage_everybody-is-taken-in-at-some-period-or_7175.jpg)
