This quote is a witty commentary on the nature of games, recreation, and the sport of golf. It suggests that the way we engage with a game can drastically change our perception and experience of it. Watching a game is a passive activity that can bring enjoyment and fun. Playing a game is more active and engaging, turning the activity into a form of recreation. However, working at a game, investing time and effort to improve and excel, transforms it into something more serious and challenging, as implied by the reference to golf.

Golf, in this context, is used as a metaphor for any activity that requires dedication, patience, and hard work to master. Golf is known for its complexity and the high level of skill it demands, which is why it’s used as an example of an activity that goes beyond mere play or recreation.

In today’s world, this quote can be applied to various fields, not just sports. It could be related to one’s career, hobbies, or personal development. For instance, watching a cooking show is fun, cooking for family and friends is recreation, but studying culinary arts, understanding the science behind it, and mastering the skills is like ‘golf’.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder that mastering a skill or achieving a goal often requires more than just casual engagement. It requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance, just like golf. It also suggests that the more effort and work you put into something, the more rewarding and fulfilling it can become, despite the challenges along the way.