"What you are, you are by accident of birth; what I am, I am by myself. There are and will be a thousand princes; there is only one Beethoven"

This quote by Ludwig van Beethoven talks to the idea of individualism and self-determination. Beethoven is recommending that one's identity is not identified by their birth or social status, however rather by their own actions and options. He is highlighting that although there may be many individuals who share similar titles or positions, there is just one unique individual who can be Beethoven. This quote encourages us to take ownership of our lives and to aim to be the best version of ourselves. It is a pointer that we are all capable of accomplishing success, regardless of our circumstances. Beethoven's words function as a reminder that we ought to not be specified by our past, but rather by our own actions and choices. We need to make every effort to be the best variation of ourselves and to make our own mark on the world.