Meaning: The quote, "If there be anything that can be called genius, it consists chiefly in the ability to give that attention to a subject which keeps it steadily in the mind, till we have surveyed it accurately on all sides," by Robert Quillen, highlights the importance of sustained attention and thorough examination in the pursuit of intellectual excellence. Robert Quillen, a journalist, humorist, and newspaper editor, is known for his insightful and thought-provoking observations on a wide range of topics.

At the core of Quillen's quote is the concept of genius, a term often used to describe exceptional intellectual or creative abilities. While the notion of genius has been the subject of much debate and speculation throughout history, Quillen's perspective offers a unique insight into the qualities that contribute to exceptional achievement. He suggests that true genius is not merely a product of innate talent, but rather a result of the unwavering attention and thorough analysis given to a subject.

Quillen's emphasis on the ability to maintain sustained attention to a subject reflects the idea that genuine intellectual insight and innovation are the product of diligent and focused exploration. This aligns with the notion that breakthroughs in knowledge and creativity are often the result of persistent and dedicated inquiry. By stressing the importance of keeping a subject steadily in the mind, Quillen highlights the disciplined focus and mental engagement required to fully comprehend and appreciate a topic.

Furthermore, Quillen's mention of surveying a subject accurately on all sides underscores the significance of comprehensive examination and thorough understanding. This notion implies that true genius is not simply a matter of superficial understanding or partial exploration but rather a deeper, more holistic engagement with the subject matter. It suggests that the ability to consider all aspects and perspectives of a topic is essential for achieving a profound and insightful grasp of it.

In the context of intellectual pursuits, Quillen's quote serves as a reminder of the value of sustained concentration, critical thinking, and thorough analysis. It suggests that genuine intellectual excellence is not a product of fleeting inspiration or superficial understanding but rather the result of persistent, in-depth engagement with a subject.

Moreover, Quillen's emphasis on the importance of sustained attention and comprehensive examination aligns with the principles of effective learning and scholarly inquiry. In academic and research contexts, the ability to maintain focus and thoroughly explore a subject is essential for producing original insights and advancing knowledge in a particular field.

Quillen's quote also resonates with the concept of deliberate practice, a key component of expertise development. Deliberate practice involves sustained, focused effort to improve specific skills or knowledge areas, and it is often associated with the attainment of exceptional performance in various domains. By highlighting the significance of sustained attention and thorough examination, Quillen's quote underscores the importance of deliberate practice in fostering intellectual excellence.

In conclusion, Robert Quillen's quote offers a compelling perspective on the nature of genius and the qualities that contribute to exceptional intellectual achievement. His emphasis on sustained attention, thorough examination, and comprehensive understanding reflects the value of disciplined inquiry and focused exploration in the pursuit of knowledge and creativity. By highlighting these qualities, Quillen's quote provides valuable insights into the nature of genuine intellectual excellence and its underlying principles.