The quote highlights the often perceptible disparity between genuine achievement and the way society or individuals tend to inflate praise and admiration beyond what is truly warranted. This phenomenon can stem from various psychological and cultural factors. On one hand, over-praising can serve to motivate and encourage continued effort, fostering an environment where success is celebrated abundantly. On the other hand, excessive admiration can dilute the value of genuine accomplishments, leading to inflated perceptions that may distort reality.

In life, authentic recognition built on honest evaluation often carries more substantial meaning and has a more profound motivating effect than superficial or exaggerated flattery. When praise surpasses the actual merit of achievements, it risks creating a bubble that may eventually burst, leading to disillusionment and skepticism about future accolades. Moreover, always aiming for modest and sincere acknowledgment tends to promote a culture of integrity and encourages individuals to pursue excellence for its own sake rather than for superficial validation.

This balancing act between praise and reality influences personal growth, professional environments, and societal standards. Recognizing true achievement with humility and honesty not only earns genuine respect but also fosters a healthier, more authentic pursuit of excellence. While encouragement is pivotal, it is equally vital to maintain a realistic perspective that honors true effort and accomplishment without resorting to unwarranted glorification, thereby fostering a more grounded and trustworthy environment.

Reflecting on these ideas reminds us that the most meaningful progress often occurs when acknowledgment aligns closely with reality, motivating us to improve based on honest assessments rather than inflated beliefs—an enduring lesson from Saramago's perspective.