In Joseph Heller's book "Good as Gold," the character Gold reflects on the nature of success and failure. He recognizes that many successful individuals exist alongside a plethora of others who possess equal or greater talent and intelligence but have not achieved the same level of success. This observation emphasizes the complexity of success, suggesting that it is not solely dependent on one's abilities or potential.

Gold's confidence in this assertion reveals a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to success. It implies that external circumstances, opportunities, or even luck play significant roles in determining who makes it and who does not. Heller’s insight challenges the conventional belief that hard work and talent alone guarantee success, instead highlighting the unpredictable and often unfair nature of achieving one's goals.