“A person with a new idea is a crank until the idea succeeds.”
- November 30, 1835 – April 21, 1910
- American
- Author, humorist, and lecturer
- Wrote masterpieces such as “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” and had a major influence on American literature
Quote
“A person with a new idea is a crank until the idea succeeds.”
Explanation
Mark Twain’s quote humorously reflects the skepticism and resistance to change that innovators and visionaries often face. He suggests that anyone with a new idea is typically seen as a crank—a term for someone who is considered eccentric or even foolish—until that idea proves successful. The humor here lies in the irony that people who challenge the status quo are often dismissed as being out of touch or nonsensical, but once their ideas gain traction or validation, they are no longer seen as crazy, but as ahead of their time or even genius. Twain’s words highlight the difficulty of introducing innovation and how society often rejects new ideas before they’ve had a chance to prove their worth.
The quote also speaks to the nature of progress—how true breakthroughs often face initial ridicule or doubt, yet over time, these ideas can reshape society and industry. Twain’s remark reflects the tension between traditional thinking and innovation, pointing out that resistance to new ideas is part of the process, but ultimately, success can validate even the most unconventional or unpopular thoughts.
In modern contexts, this quote resonates with entrepreneurs, scientists, and artists, or anyone who seeks to challenge the norm with novel concepts. Whether in technology, business, or social movements, new ideas are often met with criticism until they succeed and prove their value. Twain’s humor encourages us to be open to new possibilities, even when they seem unconventional or impractical, as they may one day be seen as transformative.
