Skip to content

Accidents Quote by Max Beerbohm

“The literary gift is a mere accident - is as often bestowed on idiots who have nothing to say worth hearing as it is denied to strenuous sages.” quote by Max Beerbohm
Download Open image
“The literary gift is a mere accident - is as often bestowed on idiots who have nothing to say worth hearing as it is denied to strenuous sages.”

Max Beerbohm

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Literary Gift", 1910

Literary talent often appears randomly, sometimes given to those lacking substance, while true scholars may be overlooked.

In simple terms: Talent can be random and unfair.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and nurture true talent.

Themes

talent fairness literature

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

essay critical

When to use this quote

  • publishing
  • award committees
  • literary criticism

Key Concepts

randomness recognition intellectual merit

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we identify genuine talent?
  • What biases affect literary recognition?
A Different Perspective

True merit may be ignored.

3.3 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Max Beerbohm

Explore all 108 Max Beerbohm quotes

More Accidents quotes

Browse all 1,971 Accidents quotes