The quote reflects a person's ambivalence towards ambition and the fear of failure. It suggests that the speaker prefers to remain in a position of imagined superiority rather than risk the possibility of actually trying and potentially falling short. This mindset provides comfort, as it allows for a sense of confidence without having to engage in the challenges of ambition.

In the context of the book "Zelda" by Nancy Milford, this perspective illustrates a complex relationship with one's aspirations. The speaker acknowledges a desire for excellence but hesitates to pursue it, fearing the reality may not match their expectations. This sentiment captures the tension between the allure of ambition and the safety of self-doubt.