Men of genius are far more abundant than is supposed. In fact, to appreciate thoroughly the work of what we call genius, is to possess all the genius by which the work was produced.
Interpretation
Genius is more common than we realize, and true appreciation of genius requires understanding the effort and creativity behind it.
Edgar Allan Poe suggests that there are more individuals with genius-like qualities than society often recognizes. To truly appreciate a genius's work, one must grasp the creativity, skill, and effort that led to its creation, fostering a deeper connection and recognition of talent.
In practice
In a discussion about artistic talent at a gallery, one might quote Poe to emphasize the hard work behind the masterpieces.
But evil things, in robes of sorrow, Assailed the monarch's high estate; (Ah, let us mourn, for never morrow Shall dawn upon him desolate!) And round about his home the glory That blushed and bloomed, Is but a dim-remembered story Of the old time entombed.
Most writers - poets in especial - prefer having it understood that they compose by a species of fine frenzy - an ecstatic intuition - and would positively shudder at letting the public take a peep behind the scenes.
...the agony of my soul found vent in one loud, long and final scream of despair.
Where the good and the bad and the worst and the best have gone to their eternal rest.
I could have clasped the red walls to my bosom as a garment of eternal peace. "Death," I said, "any death but that of the pit!" Fool! might I have not known that into the pit it was the object of the burning iron to urge me?
In our endeavors to recall to memory something long forgotten, we often find ourselves upon the very verge of remembrance, without being able, in the end, to remember.
Temperance and labor are the two real physicians of man.
Fools admire, but men of sense approve.
The world does not require so much to be informed as to be reminded.
Someone who is elated with wine speaks the truth on all subjects, even without meaning to. In the same way, anyone who is inebriated with the spirit of penitence will never be able to tell lies.
We have to unclutter our brains from worries that maybe people don't like us. Women tend to worry about popularity; it doesn't matter if they like you. They need to respect you. They need to show that respect for you in your pay check. And that needs to be okay.
When we are unable to find tranquility within ourselves, it is useless to seek it elsewhere.
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