Skip to content

Greatness Quote by Ogden Nash

“I'd rather be a great bad poet than a good bad poet.” quote by Ogden Nash
Download Open image
“I'd rather be a great bad poet than a good bad poet.”

Ogden Nash

About This Quote

Source Poem: Collected Poems, 1962

Celebrates the value of bold, imperfect creativity over cautious mediocrity.

In simple terms: Being daring is better than being safe.

Key Takeaway

Embrace boldness, even if flawed.

Themes

creativity authenticity risk artistic expression

Mood

playful defiant

Type

humorous inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Writing
  • performing arts
  • personal projects

Key Concepts

Poetry Self‑acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What bold work have you avoided?
  • How does imperfection enhance originality?
A Different Perspective

Boldness can lead to criticism or failure.

3.3 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Ogden Nash

Explore all 261 Ogden Nash quotes

More Greatness quotes

Browse all 7,631 Greatness quotes