Dante Gabriel Rossetti, the famous 19th-century poet and artist, was once approached by an elderly man. The old fellow had some sketches an...
The
old fellow had some sketches and drawings that he wanted Rossetti to
look at and tell him if they were any good, or if they at least showed
potential talent.
Rossetti looked over them carefully. After the
first few, he knew that they were worthless but Rossetti was a kind man,
he told the elderly man as gently as possible that the pictures were
without much value and showed little talent. He was sorry, but he could
not lie to the man. The man was disappointed, but seemed to expect
Rossetti’s judgment.
Dante Gabriel Rossetti
The old man then apologized for taking up Rossetti’s time, but asked him to look at a few more drawings.
Rossetti
looked over the second batch of sketches and immediately became
enthusiastic over the talent they revealed. “These,” he said, “oh, these
are good.”
“This young student has a great talent. He should be given every help and encouragement. He has a great future.”
Rossetti could see that the old fellow was deeply moved.
“Who is this fine young artist?” he asked. “Your son?”
“No,” said the old man sadly.
“It is me - 40 years ago. If only I had heard your praise then! For you see, I got discouraged and gave up – too soon.”
Author Unknown
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