“My mother said to me, ‘If you are a soldier, you will become a general. If you are a monk, you will become the Pope.’ Instead, I was a painter, and became Picasso.”
- October 25, 1881 – April 8, 1973
- Born in Spain
- Painter, sculptor, printmaker
- Founder of Cubism, he had a revolutionary influence on 20th century art, leaving behind masterpieces such as “Guernica”
Quote
“My mother said to me, ‘If you are a soldier, you will become a general. If you are a monk, you will become the Pope.’ Instead, I was a painter, and became Picasso.”
Explanation
In this quote, Picasso humorously reflects on the high expectations his mother had for him when he was a child, imagining him in prestigious and powerful roles such as a general or the Pope. These professions, often associated with authority and respect, were seen as the natural path to greatness. However, Picasso’s own choice of becoming a painter led him down a much different, yet equally impactful, path. He became one of the most influential and revolutionary artists in history, showing that greatness can come from unexpected or non-traditional pursuits. The quote highlights Picasso’s unique journey, where his passion for art defied conventional career expectations and led him to create a legacy that transcended those traditional roles.
This perspective is especially relevant in modern society, where conventional success is often defined by more traditional roles in business, politics, or academia. Picasso’s story serves as a reminder that one’s true calling or passion can lead to profound impact, even if it diverges from what society expects. It also speaks to the idea that artistic and creative achievements can be just as significant as more traditional forms of success.
An example of this can be seen in entrepreneurs like Elon Musk or Richard Branson, whose unconventional approaches to business and innovation have revolutionized industries. Similarly, artists like Frida Kahlo and Jean-Michel Basquiat rejected societal expectations to create work that challenged cultural norms and left a lasting impact. Picasso’s quote reminds us that the pursuit of one’s true passion, even outside traditional paths, can lead to remarkable and unexpected success.
