In P.G. Wodehouse's "My Man Jeeves," the author reflects on the challenges of becoming a portrait painter. He notes that potential clients are reluctant to seek out artists until they have already established a reputation through previous work. This creates a paradox where one must first create numerous pieces before being recognized or commissioned for portraits.

The humorous insight reveals the difficulties faced by aspiring artists in building a clientele. It emphasizes the need for persistence and a body of work to attract attention and requests for portraits, highlighting the connection between reputation and opportunity in the art world.