This quote from Geraldine Brooks' "The Secret Chord" speaks profoundly about the value of objectivity and experience in judgment and decision-making. It highlights the ability to distance oneself from personal biases and emotional responses as a crucial skill, especially when assessing complex situations. Putting aside personal feelings requires great self-awareness and maturity because emotions often cloud our perception, leading to misguided conclusions. By focusing on the "broad strokes," the individual in question is able to perceive the bigger picture — understanding overarching patterns and key elements rather than being bogged down in details or emotional distractions.

Experience is the cornerstone here; it equips one with the wisdom to evaluate situations more accurately. Those who are seasoned in their fields or life, through trials and successes, develop this capacity to step back and view circumstances with clarity and balance. It is a reminder that experience is not just about knowledge accumulation but about learning to see beyond ourselves and our momentary opinions.

In essence, the interplay between emotional detachment and experiential insight fosters sound judgment. This principle applies broadly — whether in leadership, personal relationships, or creative endeavors. The quote encourages readers to cultivate the discipline to manage their feelings and the patience to build experience, thereby enhancing their ability to navigate complexity thoughtfully and effectively.