This quote is a reflection on the difference between cleverness and genius. Cleverness refers to quick-witted intelligence, while genius talks about exceptional intellectual or creative power. The clouds and stars are metaphors for the levels of achievement or understanding that cleverness and genius can reach.
The phrase “By the time the clever reaches the clouds” suggests that those who are merely clever may take a longer time to achieve their goals, represented by reaching the metaphorical ‘clouds’. They might get there eventually through hard work, persistence and using their wits.
On the other hand, “the genius is already on the stars” implies that geniuses have an innate ability to grasp concepts quickly, think out-of-the-box, and reach greater heights (represented by ‘stars’) with seemingly less effort due to their exceptional intellect.
In today’s world, this idea could be applied in various fields such as technology innovation, business strategy or personal development. For instance, in tech industries where progress happens at a rapid pace; those who are merely clever might catch up with current trends but those with genuine innovative ideas (the geniuses) will be setting new trends themselves.
In terms of personal development too; one should strive not just for being smart but nurturing creativity which leads to innovative thinking – moving from being ‘clever’ towards becoming more of a ‘genius’. This could involve taking risks, embracing different perspectives and challenging traditional ways of thinking.
However it’s important to note that this quote isn’t suggesting one is superior over another but rather highlighting how they operate differently. Both traits have their own value; while not everyone can be a genius in conventional terms we all have areas where we can excel uniquely if cultivated properly.
