Maybe that’s enlightenment enough: to know that there is no final resting place of the mind; no moment of smug clarity. Perhaps wisdom...is realizing how small I am, and unwise, and how far I have yet to go. -Anthony Bourdain
Anthony BourdainRead
I’ve been really fortunate in that I guess I was hired to do A Cook’s Tour, I was already a known quantity, meaning I had written a really obnoxious book and nobody expected me to be anyone that I wasn’t already.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the unexpected opportunities that come from being authentic and true to oneself.
In this quote, Anthony Bourdain expresses gratitude for the opportunities he had, suggesting that his honesty and established reputation allowed him to approach his work genuinely. He acknowledges that his past, including writing an unpopular book, did not hinder him; instead, it contributed to his authenticity, which ultimately fostered connections with others in his professional journey.
Themes
AuthenticityOpportunityLife LessonsSelf-AwarenessHonesty
In practice
Example use cases
Use this quote in a speech about the importance of being authentic in one's career.
More from Anthony Bourdain
All quotes →My brain and body and nervous system, they see a plane ride, a long plane trip, as an opportunity to sleep with nothing coming in, nothing to do. I just go offline the minute I'm on the plane.
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I'm very proud of the Rome episode of 'No Reservations' because it violated all the conventional wisdom about making television. You're never, ever supposed to do a food or travel show in black and white.
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The notion that before you even set out to go to Thailand, you say, 'I'm not interested,' or you're unwilling to try things that people take so personally and are so proud of and so generous with, I don't understand that, and I think it's rude. You're at Grandma's house, you eat what Grandma serves you.
Anthony BourdainRead
If you’re twenty-two, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel – as far and as widely as possible. Sleep on floors if you have to. Find out how other people live and eat and cook. Learn from them – wherever you go.
Anthony BourdainRead
I feel that if Jacques Pepin shows you how to make an omelet, the matter is pretty much settled. That's God talking.
Anthony BourdainRead
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