The quote "foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds" suggests that rigid adherence to the same ideas or methods can be detrimental to intellectual growth. It implies that those who are unwilling to change their opinions or explore new perspectives limit their potential. Instead of being open to new thoughts and adapting, they become trapped in their preconceived notions.

In Tracy Kidder's book "Good Prose: The Art of Nonfiction," this message serves as a reminder for writers and thinkers. Embracing flexibility in our thinking can lead to richer narratives and deeper insights. The ability to evolve our ideas not only enhances our work but also demonstrates the complexity of human understanding, encouraging a more thoughtful and creative approach to writing and life.