"Success is no proof of virtue. In the case of a book, quick acclaim is presumptive evidence of a lack of substance and originality."

Previous Quote

A fire broke out backstage in a theatre. The clown came out to warn the public; they thought it was a joke and applauded. He repeated it; the acclaim was even greater. I think that's just how the world will come to an end: to the general applause of wits who believe it's a joke.

— Soren Kierkegaard