Life is like playing the violin in public and learning the instrument as one goes on.
About this quote
A standout line from Samuel Butler, this quote distills a lesson about perseverance into 16 unforgettable words. It has resonated with readers for generations — the sort of wisdom worth writing on a wall, and one of the 1,000 most powerful motivational quotes we’ve gathered.
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Frequently asked
Who said “Life is like playing the violin in publi…”?
This quote is attributed to Samuel Butler.
What is the meaning of this quote?
At its heart, this line speaks to perseverance — reminding us that lasting progress comes from intention, effort and perspective. Samuel Butler captures that idea in just 16 words.
What theme does this quote belong to?
It falls under the theme of Perseverance in the Top 1000 collection.
Why is this quote motivational?
Short, memorable and rooted in real experience, it's the kind of line you can return to whenever you need a push toward perseverance.
More from Samuel Butler
Discover the life, work and other memorable words of Samuel Butler.
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