Meaning: This quote by Jacob Bronowski, a renowned scientist, speaks to the experience of many individuals who feel as though they are always on the sidelines, never quite reaching the top or achieving the recognition they desire. The analogy of not making it into the first team and just missing the prizes at the flower show captures the idea of falling short of one's aspirations and feeling as though success and recognition are always just out of reach.

In a broader sense, this quote reflects the universal human experience of striving for success and recognition, only to feel as though we are perpetually falling short of our goals. It captures the frustration and disappointment that can accompany the pursuit of excellence, as well as the resilience and determination required to persist in the face of setbacks and near misses.

Jacob Bronowski, the author of this quote, was a polymath who made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics, biology, and the history of science. He was also known for his work as a science popularizer, bringing complex scientific concepts to a wider audience through his writing and television programs. Bronowski's perspective on the human experience was shaped by his deep understanding of the natural world and his insights into the workings of the human mind.

The first part of the quote, "The world is full of people who never quite get into the first team," evokes the image of individuals who are always on the periphery, never quite breaking through to the top echelons of their chosen field. This could apply to athletes vying for a spot on the starting lineup, employees striving for a promotion, or artists seeking recognition for their work. It speaks to the experience of feeling overlooked and undervalued, despite one's best efforts and talents.

The second part of the quote, "and who just miss the prizes at the flower show," extends the metaphor to a different context, that of a competition or public display of achievement. In this scenario, individuals are depicted as coming close to receiving recognition or a reward, only to fall short at the last moment. This can be particularly disheartening, as it implies that success was within reach, yet ultimately remained elusive.

The underlying message of the quote is one of empathy and understanding for the countless individuals who find themselves in the position of always being the runner-up, the almost-champion, or the perennial contender. It acknowledges the emotional toll of repeatedly falling short of one's aspirations and the resilience required to continue striving in the face of disappointment.

In a world that often celebrates only the top achievers and overlooks the efforts of those who consistently perform at a high level without receiving commensurate recognition, Bronowski's quote serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and valuing the contributions of all individuals, regardless of whether they make it into the "first team" or win the "prizes at the flower show."

In conclusion, Jacob Bronowski's quote encapsulates the universal experience of striving for success and recognition, only to find oneself perpetually on the outskirts of achievement. It speaks to the resilience required to persist in the face of disappointment and the need for greater empathy and recognition of the efforts of those who may never quite make it to the top.