By subscribing to Inspiring Quotes you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
A genius is the one most like himself.
Legendary jazz pianist Thelonious Monk relayed this message, along with other words of wisdom, to saxophonist Steve Lacy when the two played together in 1960. While his list of guidelines, which Lacy transcribed in a notebook titled "T. Monk’s Advice," was initially directed at fellow musicians, messages like these offer universal insight. Monk advocates for authenticity, personal integrity, and belief in oneself as our highest, most defining virtues. A singular force in music and beyond, he led by example on this front. In a world of constant pressure to give into conventions and expectations, he stressed that the greatest gift we have to give is ourselves.
The Best Advice From Famous Commencement Speeches
Wisdom From the Kitchen of Julia Child
15 Quotes From the Letters and Poems of Emily Dickinson
15 Carl Sagan Quotes on Life, the Universe, and the Cosmic Perspective
15 Quotes on Embracing Your Inner Introvert
The Myth of ‘Let Them Eat Cake,’ Marie Antoinette’s Famous Misquote
Quotes From Magicians on Magic, Illusions, and Mystery
The Most Famous Things Winston Churchill Never Said
‘The Best Idea We Ever Had’: 11 Quotes About National Parks
17 Quotes on the Transformative Power of Music
13 Overused Quotes — and Inspiring Alternatives to Use Instead
