---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: F. Scott Fitzgerald said, “The test of a…"
description: "\"“F. Scott Fitzgerald said, “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still reta..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0ec/peter-lucas-32970_intelligence_f-scott-fitzgerald-said-the-test-of-a-fi_1425703.jpg"
---

#  F. Scott Fitzgerald said, “The test of a first-rate…

![“F. Scott Fitzgerald said, “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function.” quote by Peter Lucas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0ec/peter-lucas-32970_intelligence_f-scott-fitzgerald-said-the-test-of-a-fi_1425703.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0ec/peter-lucas-32970_intelligence_f-scott-fitzgerald-said-the-test-of-a-fi_1425703.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0ec/peter-lucas-32970_intelligence_f-scott-fitzgerald-said-the-test-of-a-fi_1425703.jpg)

> ““F. Scott Fitzgerald said, “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function.””

[Peter Lucas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/peter-lucas/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Intelligence is measured by holding contradictory ideas while still functioning.

**In simple terms:** Smartness is handling opposing ideas.

Key Takeaway

Practice mental flexibility.

Themes

intelligence paradox cognitive complexity

Mood

analytical curious

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

- debate
- problem solving
- creative brainstorming
- conflict resolution

Key Concepts

critical thinking philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

- How do you reconcile opposing thoughts?
- When does paradox become paralysis?

A Different Perspective

Cognitive overload can hinder function.

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