Believe Quote by Letitia Elizabeth Landon
“One would think that an unsuccessful volume was like a degree in the school of reviewing. One unread work makes the judge bitter enough; but a second failure, and he is quite desperate in his damnation. I do believe one half of the injustice - the severity of 'the ungentle craft' originates in its own want of success: they cannot forgive the popularity which has passed them over.”
About This Quote
Source Poetry: “The Unsuccessful Volume”, early 19th century anthology
Critics judge harshly when they lack success themselves, blaming their own failures.
In simple terms: Critics' bitterness stems from their own lack of success.
Key Takeaway
Recognize personal bias in judgments.
Themes
criticism
failure
jealousy
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- book reviews
- art appraisal
- academic grading
Key Concepts
psychology
literary criticism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does personal failure affect one's critique?
- Can criticism be objective?
A Different Perspective
Critics may be unfair due to personal insecurity.
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