This quote by William Gilmore Simms recommends that worry of criticism can be destructive to creativity and genius. It suggests that when we are too worried about what others think about us, we can become paralyzed and not able to reveal our real potential. Simms is recommending that when we are too focused on the opinions of others, we can end up being too scared to take dangers and reveal our imagination. This worry of criticism can result in a lack of inspiration and an uncertainty in our own capabilities. It can likewise cause an absence of self-expression and an absence of imagination. Ultimately, Simms is suggesting that fear of criticism can be a major obstacle to accomplishing greatness.
