Creativity Quote by Lincoln Steffens
“Nothing is done. Everything in the world remains to be done or done over. The greatest picture is not yet painted, the greatest play isn't written, the greatest poem is unsung. There isn't in all the world a perfect railroad, nor a good government, nor a sound law. Physics, mathematics, and especially the most advanced and exact of the sciences are being fundamentally revised. . . Psychology, economics, and sociology are awaiting a Darwin, whose work in turn is awaiting an Einstein.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New Republic, 1912
Human endeavors are perpetually unfinished; progress is a continuous cycle of revision and aspiration.
In simple terms: Nothing is ever truly finished.
Key Takeaway
Accept that work is ongoing.
Themes
progress
imperfection
optimism
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- art
- science
- policy
- education
Key Concepts
philosophy
science
history
Questions to Reflect On
- What can you improve today?
- How do you balance ambition with acceptance?
A Different Perspective
Perfection is unattainable; endless revision can stall action.
