"To note an artist's limitations is but to define his talent. A reporter can write equally well about everything that is presented to his view, but a creative writer can do his best only with what lies within the range and character of his deepest sympathies"

This quote by Willa Cather talks with the suggestion that a musician's constraints can be viewed as a defining element of their skill. Cather is recommending that a reporter can cover anything, yet an imaginative author can just do their ideal work when they are writing about something that they have a deep connection to. This is since the writer's deepest compassions will be reflected in their job, and this is what makes it imaginative. Cather is emphasizing the relevance of a musician's individual connection to their work, and how it can be used to produce something genuinely special. By recognizing an artist's constraints, we can much better recognize their talent and also appreciate the job they develop.