Meaning: This quote by Edward Gibbon, the renowned historian, reflects the idea that the author of a work is often the best judge of its quality and significance. Gibbon suggests that the author, having invested significant time and effort into the creation of the work, possesses a unique understanding and perspective that makes them the most qualified to evaluate their own performance.

Gibbon's assertion that the author "has so deeply meditated on the subject" underscores the depth of thought and contemplation that goes into the creation of a written work. Authors typically spend a considerable amount of time researching, writing, and revising their work, which gives them a deep understanding of the subject matter and the intricacies of their own writing. This intimate familiarity with the subject and the creative process allows the author to form a nuanced and comprehensive judgment of their performance.

Furthermore, Gibbon highlights the author's sincere interest in the outcome of their work. Authors are often deeply invested in the success and impact of their writing. Whether it is a work of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or academic research, the author's personal stake in the outcome fosters a level of engagement and commitment that is unmatched by external observers. This emotional investment can lead the author to critically assess their work and strive for excellence.

In the context of historical writing, Gibbon's quote takes on added significance. As the author of "The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire," Gibbon was intimately familiar with the challenges and rewards of historical scholarship. His monumental work, which spans six volumes and covers centuries of history, required extensive research, analysis, and synthesis of diverse sources. Gibbon's quote can be seen as a reflection of his own experience in crafting this magnum opus, as well as his belief in the importance of the author's perspective in evaluating historical writing.

It is important to note, however, that Gibbon's assertion does not discount the value of external feedback and critique. While the author may possess unique insights into their work, the perspectives of readers, editors, and scholars can offer valuable perspectives and constructive criticism. In many cases, external evaluations can provide authors with fresh insights and opportunities for improvement.

Moreover, the quote raises questions about the subjectivity of self-assessment. Can authors truly be objective judges of their own work, or are they influenced by personal biases and attachments? This is a topic of ongoing debate in the fields of literature and academia. Some argue that authors may be too close to their work to objectively evaluate its merits, while others maintain that the author's intimate understanding of the creative process gives them unparalleled insight.

In conclusion, Edward Gibbon's quote encapsulates the author's unique position as the best judge of their own performance. It emphasizes the depth of the author's engagement with the subject matter and their sincere interest in the outcome of their work. While the quote underscores the value of the author's perspective, it also invites further exploration of the complexities of self-assessment and the role of external feedback in evaluating the quality of written works. Gibbon's own legacy as a historian and author adds depth and resonance to his words, making them a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of authorship and evaluation.