Book Quote by Stephen Jay Gould
“I love to read the dedications of old books written in monarchies for they invariably honor some (usually insignificant) knight or duke with fulsome words of sycophantic insincerity, praising him as the light of the universe (in hopes, no doubt, for a few ducats to support future work); this old practice makes me feel like such an honest and upright man, by comparison, when I put a positive spin, perhaps ever so slightly exaggerated, on a grant proposal.”
About This Quote
The quote satirizes how flattery in book dedications mirrors the exaggerated positivity people use in grant proposals to appear sincere.
In simple terms: Flattery in dedications resembles over‑optimistic grant writing.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and temper exaggeration in self‑promotion.
Themes
satire
honesty
self‑presentation
academic culture
Mood
wry
critical
reflective
Type
satirical
observational
commentary
When to use this quote
- writing grant proposals
- academic publishing
- career advancement
Key Concepts
sycophancy
self‑deception
grant writing
Questions to Reflect On
- How does flattery affect trust?
- When does optimism become deception?
A Different Perspective
excessive praise can undermine credibility.
