Meaning: The quote "It takes little talent to see what lies under one's nose, a good deal to know in what direction to point that organ" by W. Auden speaks to the idea that observation and perception are not necessarily difficult skills to possess, but the ability to interpret and understand what one observes is a much more complex and valuable talent.

At a surface level, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection on the idea that simple observation, or "seeing what lies under one's nose," does not require a great deal of skill or effort. In other words, it is relatively easy to perceive the world around us and to take note of the things that are readily apparent. However, the second part of the quote emphasizes the importance of knowing "in what direction to point that organ," referring to the nose as a metaphor for our ability to perceive and understand the world.

In this context, the quote suggests that the real challenge lies in knowing how to interpret and make sense of what we observe. It requires a greater degree of talent and skill to not only see the world around us but also to understand the significance of what we see and to discern the deeper meaning behind it. This interpretation aligns with the idea that true insight and understanding are rooted in the ability to interpret and make connections between different pieces of information.

From a philosophical perspective, the quote can be seen as highlighting the distinction between mere perception and genuine understanding. It underscores the value of wisdom and discernment, suggesting that the ability to navigate and interpret the complexities of life is a more significant and challenging endeavor than simply being able to perceive the world in a superficial sense.

The quote also carries implications for the broader themes of knowledge, wisdom, and perception. It suggests that true insight and understanding are not merely about accumulating information or observing the world, but about having the discernment to make sense of that information and apply it in meaningful ways. In this sense, the quote can be seen as a call to cultivate not just the ability to see, but also the capacity to understand and interpret what we see.

In conclusion, W. Auden's quote "It takes little talent to see what lies under one's nose, a good deal to know in what direction to point that organ" encourages us to consider the distinction between mere observation and genuine understanding. It emphasizes the importance of discernment and interpretation, suggesting that true wisdom and insight stem from the ability to not only perceive the world around us but also to make sense of it in a meaningful way. This quote serves as a reminder of the value of true understanding and the complexity of navigating the world with wisdom and insight.