"The worst tragedy that could have befallen me was my success. I knew right away that I was through - cast out"

This quote by Jonas Salk shows the problem of success. He was a popular scientist who established the polio vaccine, and his success was a terrific accomplishment. However, he understood that his success would likewise bring him a lot of attention and analysis. He understood that he would be evaluated roughly which his work would be continuously under the microscope. He felt that his success was a tragedy due to the fact that it meant that he would no longer have the ability to operate in peace and personal privacy. He was cast out from the world of science and was no longer able to pursue his work without the public's judgement. This quote shows the difficulty of success and the burden of fame. It is a tip that success can be a double-edged sword, and that it can bring both joy and grief.