What you are, you are by accident of birth; what I am, I am by myself. There are and always will be thousands of princes, but there is only one Beethoven.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Birth status is random, but personal identity is self-made and unique.
- In plain terms
- Princes are common, but I am unique.
- What can you take from it?
- Define yourself through action, not birth.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who do you want to be?
- How do you distinguish yourself?
Another view
Privilege often influences what achievements are possible.
More from Ludwig van Beethoven
To sing a wrong note is insignificant, but to sing without passion is unforgivable.
Permalink to quote #30 My music is music about music.
Permalink to quote #32 Thus Fate knocks the door.
Permalink to quote #29
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