“When I was a child, my mother said to me, ‘If you become a soldier, you’ll be a general. If you become a monk, you’ll end up as the Pope.’ Instead, I became a painter and wound up as 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
“When I was a child, my mother said to me, ‘If you become a soldier, you’ll be a general. If you become a monk, you’ll end up as the Pope.’ Instead, I became a painter and wound up as Picasso.”
Explanation
In this quote, Picasso reflects humorously on the expectations his mother had for him as a child, and how he defied them by pursuing a radically different path. His mother, believing in his potential, envisioned him achieving greatness in a more conventional way, either as a military leader or a religious figure—both roles that historically confer power and influence. However, Picasso’s choice to become a painter and his subsequent rise to global fame as one of the most influential artists of all time reveals the unpredictability of life’s path. Picasso’s statement underscores the idea that despite societal expectations or traditional roles, true fulfillment and greatness can come from choosing an unconventional route—one that allows for personal expression and the pursuit of artistic passion.
This quote is particularly relevant today in a world where many individuals still feel pressured by traditional expectations to follow conventional paths to success, whether in academia, business, or social roles. Picasso’s story serves as an inspiring reminder that it’s possible to forge a unique path and achieve greatness in ways that go beyond traditional definitions of success. The quote suggests that sometimes the most rewarding and innovative careers come not from following prescribed routes but from following one’s instincts and passions.
An example of this can be seen in the lives of entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs or Oprah Winfrey, who didn’t follow conventional career paths but instead created their own opportunities, ultimately changing entire industries. Similarly, in the arts, figures like Frida Kahlo or David Bowie defied societal expectations and carved out their own unique identities, becoming cultural icons by embracing their individuality. Picasso’s quote encourages us to trust in our own vision, regardless of the conventional paths others may expect us to follow.
