"We should like to have some towering geniuses, to reveal us to ourselves in colour and fire, but of course they would have to fit into the pattern of our society and be able to take orders from sound administrative types"
- J.B. Priestley
About this Quote
This quote by J. B. Priestley speaks to the concept that society frequently desires to have people who are extraordinary and can bring about modification, but at the very same time, these people need to fit into the existing structure of society. Priestley is suggesting that it is hard to find people who are both geniuses and able to take orders from those in authority. He is indicating that it is difficult to find people who are both innovative and ingenious, yet also happy to conform to the guidelines and policies of society. This quote speaks with the idea that society typically desires to have people who are amazing and can produce change, but at the very same time, these people should suit the existing structure of society. Priestley is recommending that it is hard to find people who are both geniuses and able to take orders from those in authority. He is suggesting that it is challenging to discover people who are both innovative and innovative, yet also willing to comply with the guidelines and regulations of society. This quote talks to the idea that society often desires to have people who are extraordinary and can bring about modification, however at the same time, these individuals must fit into the existing structure of society.
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"
"Without culture, and the relative freedom it implies, society, even when perfect, is but a jungle. This is why any authentic creation is a gift to the future"