"I wrote a great deal... but very little of any importance; there are not more than four of five papers which I can still remember with some satisfaction"
- G. H. Hardy
About this Quote
In this quote, G. H. Hardy assesses his composing and acknowledges that while he has actually written a lot, only a few pieces hold any genuine significance to him. He admits that the majority of his work may not have been of excellent value or effect. This might suggest that he may have fought with self-doubt or perfectionism in his writing. However, the reality that he can still remember a handful of documents with complete satisfaction reveals that he did produce some meaningful and remarkable work. This quote highlights the concept that quantity does not constantly equate to quality, which it is the few remarkable pieces that truly matter.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"