With copious evidence ranging from Plato's haughtiness to Beethoven's tirades, we may conclude that the most brilliant people of history tend to be a prickly lot.

Summary

This quote suggests that throughout history, many exceptionally intelligent individuals are known for being difficult, challenging, or difficult to deal with. It refers to various examples like Plato's arrogant demeanor and Beethoven's outbursts, implying that highly talented people often possess a volatile or contentious disposition. The quote highlights a common tendency among brilliant minds to exhibit behavioral traits that may be interpreted as prickly or challenging, possibly due to their uncompromising pursuit of excellence.

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