The real issue is not talent as an independent element, but
The real issue is not talent as an independent element, but talent in relationship to will, desire, and persistence. Talent without these things vanishes and even modest talent with those characteristics grows.
In the realm of human achievement, few gifts are as celebrated as talent, yet Milton Glaser reveals a truth both timeless and profound: “The real issue is not talent as an independent element, but talent in relationship to will, desire, and persistence.” These words remind us that the mere spark of ability, without nurturing and guiding forces, is like a flame exposed to the wind: it may flicker, but it will not endure. True greatness is born not of gifts alone, but of the marriage between ability and unwavering effort.
To understand talent in relationship to will, desire, and persistence is to recognize that the human spirit shapes the raw material of skill. Will channels action; desire fuels purpose; persistence strengthens the resolve to continue when the path grows dark. Glaser teaches that even the most modest abilities, when combined with these qualities, can flourish beyond measure, while the brightest natural talent, left untended, fades into obscurity.
The vanishing of talent without will and persistence is a warning to all who seek excellence. Many are born with gifts that dazzle, yet few cultivate them with diligence. History bears witness to countless prodigies who, untempered by discipline and sustained effort, vanished from memory. In contrast, those who apply themselves with desire and steadfast persistence leave legacies that endure, shaping not only their own destinies but the world around them.
The origin of this wisdom is ancient, embedded in the teachings of philosophers, warriors, and artisans alike. From the sculptors of marble temples to the scribes of enduring texts, it was known that raw ability is but a seed; only through patient cultivation does it bear fruit. Glaser’s reflection carries forward this eternal lesson into the modern age, reminding us that human achievement is a confluence of natural endowment and conscious effort.
Thus, let this teaching endure: honor your talent, but let it never stand alone. Bind it to the fires of will, the longing of desire, and the steady march of persistence. In this union, the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and the gifts of the self, no matter how humble, rise to meet the heights of human potential. For talent without cultivation is fleeting, but talent fused with purpose endures for all generations.
GMNguyen Gia Minh
This quote really makes me reflect on how easy it is to overlook the importance of persistence and desire. Talent alone isn’t enough, and yet, how often do we hear people say, ‘I’m just not talented enough’? Can we learn to channel our passion and persistence to create the success we want, regardless of how much natural talent we have? It seems like the real key to growth is the will to keep going.
TVThuong Vo
Glaser’s perspective is a great reminder that talent should never be the sole measure of potential. It also makes me think about how people often give up on their goals when the road gets tough. How do we cultivate the willpower and persistence needed to keep going even when we don’t feel like we’re seeing results? Can modest talent, when paired with determination, really outshine raw talent in the long run?
QNmai quyen nguyen
I completely agree with Glaser that talent is nothing without the right attitude and work ethic. It makes me wonder, how many people are quick to dismiss their potential simply because they don't feel as naturally talented as others? Can we train ourselves to develop the necessary will and persistence to make up for a lack of innate talent? Maybe success is more about attitude and effort than talent itself.
NIJungkook Ng iu
Milton Glaser’s quote speaks volumes about the true nature of success. It challenges the idea that talent alone is enough to achieve greatness. How often do we see people with immense talent but no perseverance or drive fall short of their potential? Is it possible that those of us who feel less naturally gifted could actually surpass those with more talent if we focus on persistence and desire? This really makes me reflect on the importance of resilience.