Victor Hugo was a madman who thought he was Victor Hugo.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Victor Hugo was so absorbed in his own greatness that he lost perspective.
- In plain terms
- Hugo thought too much of himself and acted like a madman.
- What can you take from it?
- Self-importance can distort reality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does confidence become delusion?
- Is ego required for greatness?
Another view
Some degree of self-belief is necessary for great achievement.
More from Jean Cocteau
A true poet does not bother to be poetical. Nor does a nursery gardener scent his roses.
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