"It's the people who try to be clever who never are; the people who are clever never think of trying to be"
- Gilbert Parker
About this Quote
The quote by Gilbert Parker recommends a profound observation about the nature of intelligence and cleverness. At its core, the statement highlights the distinction in between appearances and real qualities. Parker posits that those who consciously make every effort to appear creative often do not possess genuine intelligence or cleverness. This can be analyzed as a review of pretentiousness and the superficial pursuit of appearing intellectual without the substance to back it up.
On the other hand, the genuinely clever people are those who do not purposely strive to project that image. Their cleverness is innate and comes naturally to them, to the degree that they do not feel the need to make any unique effort to display it. This reveals an authenticity in authentic cleverness, suggesting that real intelligence is uncomplicated and is expressed naturally in one's actions and speech without premeditation or fanfare.
Parker's assertion can also be seen due to the wider understanding of self-awareness and humbleness. Those who focus greatly on attempting to be smart may be driven by insecurity or a desire for validation, indicating a level of self-consciousness that might actually prevent real intelligence. Conversely, the genuinely clever may not be preoccupied with how others view their intelligence, enabling them to concentrate on learning, understanding, and contributing meaningfully.
The quote motivates reflecting on inspirations behind actions, urging individuals to cultivate genuine skills and knowledge rather than simply developing exteriors. It echoes the sentiment that success and acknowledgment are often natural by-products of genuine passion and devotion, rather than the main goals achieved through artifice.
Eventually, Parker's observation is a pointer of the value of credibility over appearance. It requires an appreciation of authentic cleverness and the virtues of humbleness and self-assuredness in the expression of one's intelligence.
