Mediocrity knows nothing higher than itself, but talent instantly recognizes genius.

The aphorism contrasts two kinds of judgment. “Mediocrity” is portrayed as self-referential: it measures everything by its own limited standards and therefore cannot perceive excellence as excellence. “Talent,” by contrast, is shown as having enough range and humility to recognize a higher order of ability—“genius”—even when it surpasses the observer. The line implies that true competence includes discernment: the more capable a person is, the more accurately they can evaluate others’ achievements. It also serves as a warning about criticism and envy—dismissal from the mediocre may say more about the critic’s limitations than about the work being judged.