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About this quote

What does it mean?
Bright youth often fade, but great men grow slowly or survive early glory to keep learning.
In plain terms
Early brilliance fades; greatness comes from slow growth.
What can you take from it?
Survive early fame to keep growing.

Where it applies

  • career advice
  • education
  • midlife review

Putting it to work

  • avoid early burnout
  • focus on long learning
  • ignore hype

Questions to consider

  • How long will you keep learning?
  • Are you rushing your potential?

Another view

Some people do achieve greatness quickly without fading.

More from Willa Cather

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