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About this quote

What does it mean?
The quote suggests that Emperor Norton was as universally uncomprehended as great thinkers.
In plain terms
Everyone knows Mickey Mouse, but few understood Einstein or Norton.
What can you take from it?
True depth often escapes popular understanding.

Where it applies

  • cultural comment
  • reflection

Putting it to work

  • questioning popularity

Questions to consider

  • Do deep people go misunderstood?
  • Why do we admire some but not others?

Another view

Norton was eccentric in a way others were not.

More from Joshua Abraham Norton

  1. The heritage of honor and integrity that he had handed down while in his affluence, was never squandered nor dissipated, and so he bore the respect and goodwil…

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  2. His madness keeps him sane.

    Permalink to quote #9
  3. On the reeking pavement, in the darkness of a moonless night under the dripping rain, and surrounded by a hastily gathered crowd of wondering strangers, Norton…

    Permalink to quote #6

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