“The remarkable thing about Shakespeare is that he is really very good—in spite of all the people who say he is very good.”
What this quote means
Robert Graves ironically points out that Shakespeare's genius is such that it survives even the excess of praise. It reminds us that the true value of a work does not depend on public opinion, but on its intrinsic quality. It's an invitation to judge for ourselves, to go beyond clichés and rediscover authentic depth and beauty.
How to apply it daily
Pick a classic work you've never appreciated, and read or watch it with fresh eyes, forming your own opinion.
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