"There is all the difference in the world between departure from recognised rules by one who has learned to obey them, and neglect of them through want of training or want of skill or want of understanding. Before you can be eccentric you must know where the circle is"

This quote by Ellen Terry is highlighting the importance of understanding the rules before you can break them. She is suggesting that it is only possible to be eccentric if you have a mutual understanding of the rules and regulations that are in place. She is recommending that it is inadequate to just disregard the rules due to a lack of training, ability or understanding. Rather, she is suggesting that it is only possible to be eccentric if you have a good understanding of the rules and regulations that are in location and after that make a conscious choice to depart from them. This quote is a suggestion that it is essential to understand the guidelines before you can break them, which it is only possible to be really eccentric if you have a good understanding of the guidelines and guidelines that are in location.