His talent was as natural as the pattern that was made by the dust on a butterfly's wings. At one time he understood it no more than the butterfly did and he did not know when it was brushed or marred. Later he became conscious of his damaged wings and of their construction and he learned to think and could not fly any more because the love of flight was gone and he could only remember when it had been effortless.

Summary

This quote explores the idea of natural talent and how it can be lost through self-awareness and overthinking. Initially, the person's talent was instinctive and effortless, comparable to the delicate pattern on a butterfly's wings. However, as they became aware of their own abilities and the flaws that inevitably accompany them, they lost the capacity to perform effortlessly. The mention of 'damaged wings' symbolizes this loss and suggests that too much self-awareness and analysis can hinder the natural flow of talent, leaving only memories of the once effortless ability.

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