"Genius is present in every age, but the men carrying it within them remain benumbed unless extraordinary events occur to heat up and melt the mass so that it flows forth"

In this quote, Denis Diderot suggests that genius exists in every era, but it frequently remains inactive within individuals unless something extraordinary happens to awaken and release it. He compares this inactive state to being "benumbed," or numb and unresponsive. Diderot believes that it takes a considerable occasion or situation to ignite the genius within a person and enable it to flow easily. This might be viewed as a commentary on the potential for achievement within all people, however the requirement for external aspects to bring it to the surface. Diderot's words also highlight the power of amazing events to form and transform people, permitting them to use their genius and make a long lasting effect on the world.