Better to err with Pope, than shine with Pye.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- It's better to make mistakes with a great writer like Pope than to appear brilliant with a lesser one like Pye.
- In plain terms
- Prefer learning from the best, even if you err.
- What can you take from it?
- Choose mentors of high quality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who are the masters in your field?
- Is it worth failing with a lesser guide?
Another view
The quote assumes fame equals quality, which can be contested.
More from Lord Byron
As soon Seek roses in December, ice in June; Hope constancy in wind, or corn in chaff; Believe a woman or an epitaph, Or any other thing that's false, before Y…
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