"A man possesses talent; genius possesses the man"
About this Quote
Isaac Stern's quote, "A man has skill; genius has the man", uses an extensive examination of the intrinsic distinctions in between talent and genius, and how each relates to specific identity and life. On a surface level, this quote brightens the passive versus active nature of skill and genius.
Talent is depicted as a quality that a person "possesses", recommending a component of control or ownership. A talented individual can harness and use their ability at will, utilizing it to accomplish success or accomplish particular jobs. This possession suggests that talent, although valuable, is a tool; it is something that can be practiced, surpassed, and handled. Gifted individuals use their skills to satisfy objectives and overcome challenges, and while their abilities might define part of their identity, they do not consume them totally.
On the other hand, genius is portrayed as something that possesses the specific, acting as a more dominant and all-consuming force. When Stern suggests that "genius has the man", he suggests that genius goes beyond simple capability or skill. It includes one's entire being, frequently determining the instructions of the person's life and affecting every idea and action. Genius can be seen as a double-edged sword; while it can cause amazing insight and imagination, it can also be frustrating, leading people down paths they might not have actually chosen otherwise.
Furthermore, genius typically carries with it an aspect of obsession. Those who are possessed by genius can not easily separate themselves from it. It drives them relentlessly towards development and expedition, often pushing the boundaries of their field. In this sense, genius is less about control and more about surrender, where the person goes through the extensive, often tumultuous, forces of motivation and insight.
In essence, Stern's distinction underscores the transformative and prominent power of genius compared to the adaptive, manageable nature of skill. It speaks to the idea that while skill can be cultivated, genius is a natural force that governs and shapes a person's life and tradition.
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