The trouble about the Academie is that by the time they get around to electing us to a seat, we really need a bed.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Recognition from established institutions often comes too late to be useful.
- In plain terms
- Official honors arrive when you are already old or dead.
- What can you take from it?
- Do not wait for external validation to feel successful.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What recognition matters most to you?
- Are you waiting for permission to succeed?
Another view
Some honors remain valuable for legacy even if late.
More from Jean Cocteau
An artist cannot speak about his art any more than a plant can discuss horticulture.
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