Failure Quote by Will Cuppy
“We all make mistakes, but intelligence enables us to do it on purpose.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Complete Works of Will Cuppy, 1952
Intelligence lets us choose to err deliberately, highlighting human agency in folly.
In simple terms: Smart people can make intentional mistakes.
Key Takeaway
Recognize when you’re choosing error.
Themes
human nature
intelligence
choice
Mood
wry
thoughtful
Type
satirical
observational
When to use this quote
- political satire
- creative writing
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
self‑awareness
deliberate folly
Questions to Reflect On
- Why would you choose to make a mistake?
- What does intentional error reveal about control?
A Different Perspective
Intentional errors can undermine credibility.
![“[Footnote:] Pliny the Elder described a Whale called "Balaena or Whirlpool, which is so long and broad as to take up more in length and breadth than two acres of ground." This brings up again the old question: Are the classics doomed? Our ancestors believed that four years of this sort of…” quote by Will Cuppy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1c1/will-cuppy-7569_acres_footnote-pliny-the-elder-described-a-wha_84284.jpg)
![“[Footnote:] The female of any species is generally regarded as a relatively anabolic organism, more passive than the male, who is relatively katabolic and active. The fact remains that one frequently runs across a rather katabolic female.” quote by Will Cuppy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b43/will-cuppy-7569_active_footnote-the-female-of-any-species-is-ge_381362.jpg)
