What constitutes genius?
The idea attached by most minds to the word genius, is something similar to what we conceive of instinct in the brute: which can neither be improved by the possessor, nor sought after with success by others. They suppose that genius is inherent in the natures of some men, and therefore they can have no credit for its acquisition. This no doubt arises from a lack of knowledge as to what constitutes genius. Did the public, one and all, see the midnight hour spent in study by those whom they call geniuses, could they seem them labor with more assiduity, and strive more ardently than they would for wealth, they would forever lay aside the idea that genius is inherent. Judging from outward appearances, we might espouse the opinion of the world, but to draw aside the curtains, is but to establish the truth, that every man is master of his own fortune. When we think of Bonapart, we are apt to forget that he was once a soldier, and that during his youth he gave himself to study, both of arms,
