Ninety percent of everything is crap

Ninety percent of everything is crap

Theodore Sturgeon was an American science fiction author who is perhaps best known for his quote, "Ninety percent of everything is crap." This statement has become a widely accepted principle in various fields, including literature, art, music, and even everyday life. Sturgeon's observation suggests that the vast majority of creative output is of low quality, while only a small fraction is truly exceptional.

Sturgeon's quote is often misunderstood as a pessimistic view of the world, but in reality, it is a reflection of the reality of creative endeavors. In any field, there is a wide range of quality among works produced, with only a small percentage reaching a level of excellence. This principle can be seen in literature, where only a handful of books become classics, in music, where only a few songs top the charts, and in art, where only a select few pieces are considered masterpieces.

Sturgeon's quote also serves as a reminder that failure is a natural part of the creative process. Not every idea will be a success, and not every work will be well-received. However, this should not discourage creators from continuing to pursue their craft. By accepting that most of what they produce may not be of the highest quality, artists can free themselves from the pressure to always create perfection and instead focus on experimentation and growth.