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About this quote

What does it mean?
True genius requires taking risks beyond mere ability.
In plain terms
Being a genius means using your talent bravely.
What can you take from it?
Courage turns skill into greatness.

Where it applies

  • art
  • innovation
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • take creative risks
  • develop skills

Questions to consider

  • Does talent alone create greatness?
  • What risks would you take to use your talent?

Another view

It simplifies the many factors like luck and support that also build genius.

More from Ludwig Wittgenstein

  1. I sit astride life like a bad rider on a horse. I only owe it to the horse's good nature that I am not thrown off at this very moment. (p. 36e)

    Permalink to quote #80
  2. Aim at being loved without being admired. (p. 38e)

    Permalink to quote #82
  3. Resting on your laurels is as dangerous as resting when you are walking in the snow. You doze off and die in your sleep. (p. 35e)

    Permalink to quote #79

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