This quote suggests that authors, or by extension, any creators, appreciate recognition and praise for their work, regardless of who it comes from. Even if the compliment comes from someone who may not be fully competent or knowledgeable in the area, it still holds value. This is because the compliment serves as a form of validation and acknowledgment of their efforts, which can be encouraging and motivating.

Twain might also be hinting at the idea that everyone’s opinion holds some value. Even if someone is not an expert in a field, they can still offer a unique perspective or insight that might not have been considered before. This concept of valuing all feedback can be applied to many areas of life beyond writing, such as in business, art, or personal relationships.

In today’s world, this idea is particularly relevant in the realm of social media and online content creation. With the ability for anyone to comment and critique, creators often receive feedback from a wide range of sources, many of which might be of “doubtful competency.” However, positive feedback, regardless of the source, can still provide a boost of confidence and motivation.

In terms of personal development, this quote could be interpreted as a reminder to value all feedback and use it as a tool for growth. Even if the source of the feedback is not an expert, their perspective could still offer valuable insights. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of self-validation. Even if the compliment comes from a source of doubtful competency, the fact that your work resonated with someone and made an impact can be a source of motivation to continue improving and creating.

On the other hand, it’s also crucial to remember that while all feedback can be valuable, it’s essential to discern constructive criticism from mere opinion, especially when it comes from a source of doubtful competency.