"In the first place, the preparation of the Nobel lecture which I am to give has shown me, even more clearly than I knew before, how many others share with me, often, indeed, have anticipated me, in the discoveries for which you have awarded me the prize"

This quote by Frederick Soddy is a modest acknowledgement of the work of others in his field. He is expressing his gratitude for being awarded the Nobel Prize, but also acknowledging that a lot of the discoveries for which he was granted the prize were not exclusively his own. He is recognizing that a lot of his discoveries were expected by others, which the procedure of preparing his Nobel lecture has actually made this a lot more clear to him. He is revealing his appreciation for the work of his peers and predecessors, and acknowledging that his success is due in part to their contributions. This quote is a testament to the value of partnership and the power of cumulative understanding.