This quote by Ambrose Bierce is a somewhat cynical view of perseverance, suggesting that it is a virtue most commonly associated with mediocrity and leads to a success that is not particularly glorious or noteworthy. It implies that perseverance is often the tool of the average, the ordinary, and the mediocre to achieve success, albeit a success that might not be as spectacular or impressive as one achieved through sheer talent or genius.
The term “lowly virtue” suggests that perseverance is not highly esteemed or respected, perhaps because it is seen as a quality that anyone can possess, regardless of their skills or abilities. It is not a virtue that requires any special talent or intelligence, but simply the willingness to keep trying, to keep working, despite obstacles, setbacks, or failures.
The phrase “inglorious success” suggests a success that is not particularly admirable or worthy of praise. It’s the kind of success that comes from simply not giving up, rather than from any remarkable achievement or accomplishment. It’s the kind of success that anyone can achieve if they are simply willing to keep trying, to keep pushing, no matter what.
In today’s world, this quote could be seen as a critique of the ‘grind culture’ or the ‘hustle mentality’ that encourages constant work and effort, often at the expense of health, relationships, and overall well-being. It’s the idea that success can only be achieved through relentless effort and struggle, rather than through creativity, innovation, or the development of unique skills or talents.
In terms of personal development, this quote could be interpreted as a reminder that while perseverance is important, it should not be the only quality we value or strive for. It suggests that we should also value and cultivate other qualities, such as creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. These are the qualities that can lead to a more meaningful and noteworthy success, rather than the ‘inglorious success’ achieved through sheer perseverance.
