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When I am in the company of scientists, I feel like a shabby curate who has strayed by mistake into a drawing room full of dukes.
W. H. Auden
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote expresses a feeling of inadequacy when in the presence of highly knowledgeable individuals.

W. H. Auden uses a metaphor to convey his sense of inferiority and discomfort when surrounded by scientists, who represent intellectual elites akin to dukes. The comparison highlights the psychological gap between his self-perception and the esteemed company he finds himself in, suggesting a feeling of being out of place or unworthy among those with vast knowledge and expertise.

Themes

InadequacyKnowledgeIntellectComparisonCompany

In practice

Example use cases

Using this quote in a speech about humility in the presence of great minds.

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