“One must not make oneself cheap here – that is a cardinal point – or else one is done. Whoever is most impertinent has the best chance.”
- January 27, 1756 – December 5, 1791
- Born in Salzburg (Austria)
- Composer
- Left behind many masterpieces such as “The Marriage of Figaro,” “Don Giovanni,” and “The Magic Flute”
Quote
“One must not make oneself cheap here – that is a cardinal point – or else one is done. Whoever is most impertinent has the best chance.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mozart reflects on the competitive and sometimes harsh nature of his professional environment, where self-respect and assertiveness are crucial to achieving success. He suggests that in order to succeed in certain circles, particularly in the world of music and courtly patronage, one must not be overly deferential or humble to the point of being taken advantage of. Impertinence, or the ability to assert oneself boldly, is presented as a strategy for gaining attention and respect. This insight highlights Mozart’s sharp understanding of human nature and his keen awareness of the dynamics at play in the highly competitive world of the 18th-century music scene, where reputation and self-promotion often played as significant a role as musical talent itself.
Historically, this sentiment may be related to the challenges Mozart faced in gaining consistent recognition and financial stability. While he was a genius, the nature of the patronage system often meant that composers had to be assertive and even somewhat forceful to secure commissions and ensure their survival in an environment where artistic worth was frequently undermined by political and social dynamics. The mention of impertinence could also reflect how some composers or musicians were able to climb the ranks not just through talent, but by being bold or outspoken in their dealings with patrons or other influential figures.
In the modern world, this quote continues to resonate, especially in industries like arts, entertainment, and business, where self-promotion and confidence are often necessary for gaining visibility and success. In today’s competitive job markets and creative industries, being able to stand out and assert one’s value without being overly modest is often critical. Mozart’s words remind us that while talent is essential, being bold and unapologetic about one’s worth can sometimes be just as important in achieving long-term success.
