Everything perfect in its kind has to transcend its own kind, it must become something different and incomparable. In some notes the nightingale is still a bird; then it rises above its class and seems to suggest to every winged creature what singing is truly like.

Summary

This quote suggests that true excellence and perfection cannot be confined to the limitations of its own category or kind. To truly stand out, something must surpass its own nature and transcend into something unique and unparalleled. The example given is that of a nightingale, which starts as just another bird, but when it sings, it reaches such heights that it sets a benchmark for all other flying creatures in terms of what true singing should sound like. This quote highlights the concept that greatness lies in the ability to go beyond conventions and inspire others to reach higher standards.

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