Never were abilities so much below mediocrity so well rewarded; no, not when Caligulas horse was made Consul.

Summary

This quote criticizes the tendency of society to reward individuals with mediocre abilities disproportionately. It sarcastically compares the situation to when the Roman Emperor Caligula's horse was appointed as a Consul, highlighting the absurdity and lack of meritocracy in such choices. The quote suggests that certain people are receiving excessive recognition and privileges despite their lack of competence or deserving qualities, which can be seen as an indictment of the unfairness or corruption that sometimes exists in systems of reward and recognition.