Versatility is one of the few human traits which are universally intolerable. You may be good at Greek and good at painting and be popular. You may be good at Greek and good at sport, and be wildly popular. But try all three and you're a mountebank. Nothing arouses suspicion quicker than genuine, all-round proficiency.
"Versatility is a trait that people generally find difficult to accept in others. Being skilled in multiple areas like Greek language, painting, or sports can make someone well-liked and admired. However, attempting to excel in all these fields simultaneously often leads to suspicion and distrust, as it is seen as inauthentic or insincere."
"Dorothy Dunnett highlights that true expertise in one domain is more acceptable than juggling multiple talents. When someone appears to master everything, it raises doubts about their authenticity, making them seem like a charlatan or someone who is not genuinely dedicated to any one craft."
