Great Quote by Patti Smith
“I would rather write or record something great and have it overlooked than do mediocre work and have it be popular.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: 1978 interview with Rolling Stone
Preferring to create something exceptional that may be ignored over producing mediocre work that becomes popular.
In simple terms: Create great work even if it goes unnoticed.
Key Takeaway
Value quality over fame.
Themes
artistic integrity
creativity
recognition
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- publishing a novel
- producing an album
- filmmaking
- visual art
Key Concepts
authentic expression
risk taking
cultural impact
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “great” mean to you?
- Would you trade obscurity for influence?
A Different Perspective
Great work can still be ignored, limiting its impact.
![“Sometimes [people] seem to think I came out of the womb, you know, cursing, with an electric guitar.” quote by Patti Smith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c73/patti-smith-394_cursing_sometimes-people-seem-to-think-i-came-ou_28268.jpg)
