Quote by A. N. Wilson
I suppose if I'd got a brilliant first and done research I might still be a don today, but I hope not. People become dons because they are incapable of doing anything else in life.
Summary
In this quote, the speaker reflects on the possibility of achieving a successful academic career (possibly becoming a university professor) due to a brilliant first (a top-notch degree) and engaging in research. However, they express a sense of relief that they did not pursue this path. The speaker implies that "dons" (referring to university professors) often end up in academia because they lack the abilities or opportunities to excel in any other field of life. The quote suggests a certain disdain for the notion of securing a career solely within academia and hints at a broader perspective on the idea of success and fulfillment.
Topics
Hope
By A. N. Wilson