Meaning: This quote is a witty and thought-provoking observation made by the American poet and literary critic Randall Jarrell. In this quote, Jarrell is likely commenting on the tendency of individuals to overlook or dismiss the significance of historical or cultural figures, reducing them to mere names or titles without truly understanding their impact or contributions to society.

Friedrich Schiller was an influential German poet, philosopher, and playwright during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He is best known for his dramatic works, including "William Tell" and "Don Carlos," as well as his philosophical writings on aesthetics and the role of art in society. Schiller's ideas and literary works had a profound impact on German literature and culture, and his influence extended beyond his own lifetime to influence later generations of writers and thinkers.

St. Paul, also known as the Apostle Paul, was a key figure in the early Christian church and a major contributor to the New Testament. After initially being a persecutor of early Christians, he underwent a dramatic conversion experience and became one of the most important figures in the spread of early Christianity. His letters, known as the Pauline epistles, form a significant part of the New Testament and have had a lasting impact on Christian theology and religious thought.

Partisan Review was an American literary and cultural commentary magazine that was published from 1934 to 2003. It was known for its intellectual rigor and its role in fostering literary and political debate during the mid-20th century. The magazine featured contributions from prominent writers, critics, and intellectuals, and it played a significant role in shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of its time.

Jarrell's quote can be interpreted in several ways. On one level, it may be seen as a commentary on the tendency of some individuals to reduce complex and historically significant figures to mere labels or associations. By likening Schiller and St. Paul to "Partisan Review editors," Jarrell may be suggesting that their true significance and impact have been overlooked or misunderstood by those who fail to engage with their work in a meaningful way.

Furthermore, the quote could also be interpreted as a commentary on the limitations of contemporary perspectives and the potential for historical figures to be overshadowed or forgotten in the passage of time. By equating these influential figures with the relatively mundane role of magazine editors, Jarrell may be drawing attention to the ways in which historical memory and understanding can become distorted or diluted over time.

In conclusion, Randall Jarrell's quote "He thinks that Schiller and St Paul were just two Partisan Review editors" offers a pointed commentary on the potential for historical and cultural figures to be misunderstood or overlooked. By drawing attention to the tendency to reduce significant figures to mere names or titles, Jarrell prompts us to consider the depth and complexity of their contributions and the importance of engaging with their work in a meaningful way. The quote serves as a reminder of the need to approach historical and cultural figures with a sense of curiosity and respect for their lasting impact on society.