Meaning: The quote "You can be a famous poisoner or a successful poisoner, but not both, and the same seems to apply to Great Train Robbers" by Clive Anderson, an entertainer, carries a profound message about the dichotomy of criminal success and notoriety. This quote suggests that individuals engaged in criminal activities must navigate a delicate balance between achieving their illicit goals and avoiding public recognition. In the context of famous poisoners and successful poisoners, the quote implies that gaining fame as a poisoner may lead to a higher risk of being caught, while achieving success in poisoning without attracting public attention allows for continued criminal activities. Similarly, the reference to Great Train Robbers underscores the idea that achieving notoriety as a criminal may compromise one's ability to evade law enforcement and continue criminal operations.

The quote's reference to "famous poisoners" and "successful poisoners" can be interpreted in multiple ways. On one hand, it can be seen as a cautionary statement, warning individuals involved in criminal activities about the potential consequences of seeking fame or notoriety. It suggests that those who become widely known for their criminal exploits are more likely to attract the attention of law enforcement and face the repercussions of their actions. On the other hand, the quote can also be viewed as a commentary on the inherent conflict between the desire for recognition and the need for discretion in criminal endeavors. It highlights the trade-off between achieving public acclaim and maintaining the ability to operate outside the grasp of the law.

Clive Anderson, the entertainer who delivered this quote, is known for his wit and humor, and it is likely that he intended for the quote to be thought-provoking and somewhat tongue-in-cheek. While the quote may seem to glamorize criminal behavior at first glance, it ultimately serves as a reminder of the complexities and contradictions inherent in criminal pursuits.

The mention of the Great Train Robbers further contextualizes the quote within the realm of high-profile criminal activities. The Great Train Robbery, which took place in 1963 in England, involved the theft of £2.6 million (equivalent to approximately £53 million today) from a Royal Mail train. The notoriety of the robbers and the audacious nature of the crime captured the public's imagination and led to a widespread manhunt and eventual capture of the perpetrators. The quote by Clive Anderson, therefore, draws from a real-life example of criminal fame conflicting with criminal success.

In a broader sense, the quote can be applied to various criminal enterprises and the dynamics of achieving recognition versus maintaining operational security. It prompts reflection on the interplay between criminal ambition, the pursuit of notoriety, and the practical considerations of evading detection and capture.

Ultimately, the quote by Clive Anderson serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in criminal activities and the delicate balance between achieving fame and achieving success while avoiding the scrutiny of law enforcement. It challenges the romanticized notions of criminal notoriety and fame, highlighting the inherent contradictions and risks involved in seeking public recognition for illicit deeds.