Meaning: The quote "If what I do prove well, it won't advance. They'll say it's stolen, or else it was by chance." is a poignant reflection on the challenges faced by artists and creators throughout history. It was penned by Anne Bradstreet, an influential poet of the 17th century. In this quote, Bradstreet captures the frustration and disillusionment that often accompany the creative process, as well as the skepticism and criticism that artists may face when their work is well-received.

Anne Bradstreet was an early English-American writer and is considered one of the most prominent early American poets. Born in England in 1612, she emigrated to the Massachusetts Bay Colony with her family in 1630. Despite the societal limitations placed on women during her time, Bradstreet was able to pursue her passion for writing and became the first notable American poet.

In the quote, Bradstreet laments the fact that even if her work is successful, it may not be recognized or appreciated. She expresses a deep sense of frustration at the potential for her accomplishments to be dismissed or attributed to sources other than her own creativity and effort. This sentiment reflects the challenges faced by many artists who struggle to gain recognition and validation for their work.

Her words also speak to the broader issue of artistic integrity and the fear of having one's work misunderstood or undervalued. The fear of being accused of plagiarism or having one's success attributed to mere luck rather than genuine talent is a common concern for many artists. This quote captures the vulnerability and self-doubt that often accompany the creative process, as well as the struggle for validation and respect in the face of skepticism and criticism.

Bradstreet's own experiences as a female writer in a male-dominated society undoubtedly influenced her perspective on the challenges of being a creator. In her time, women were often discouraged from pursuing intellectual and artistic endeavors, and their work was frequently dismissed or attributed to male influences. Bradstreet's quote reflects the frustration and disillusionment of not being taken seriously as a female artist, as well as the fear of having her achievements undermined or dismissed.

Despite the obstacles and doubts expressed in this quote, Anne Bradstreet's legacy as a pioneering poet has endured. Her work has been recognized for its literary merit and has had a lasting impact on American literature. Her words continue to resonate with artists and creators who grapple with the complexities of the creative process and the challenges of gaining recognition and validation for their work.

In conclusion, Anne Bradstreet's quote "If what I do prove well, it won't advance. They'll say it's stolen, or else it was by chance." encapsulates the universal struggle of artists to gain recognition and respect for their work. It reflects the fear of having one's accomplishments misunderstood or dismissed and speaks to the enduring challenges faced by creators throughout history. Bradstreet's words serve as a poignant reminder of the resilience and determination required to persevere as an artist, as well as the enduring relevance of her own contributions to the world of literature.