31–40 of 56 posts
A little disheartening to realize that Leonardo is basically applying for a post in the Sforzan NSA.
If anything he was really applying to be a defense contractor.
If it worked for Leonardo da Vinci, maybe it could work for me. The next time I'm looking for a job, I'll try this: "Most Illustrious Proprietor, Having now sufficiently considered the specimens of all those who proclaim themselves skilled developers of applications of business, and that the invention and operation of the said programs are nothing different from those in common use: I shall endeavor, without prejudic…
Brilliant. Notice that he doesn't dwell on his "qualifications" or his accolades, the letter is basically: 1. I know as you do that there are many who claim to be able to bring you new stuff, but as we both know, they are almost all just rebranding the same old stuff we already have 2. I can do the following important things for you: a. b. c. ... 3. If you are skeptical of my seemingly optimistic claims, I'd be happy…
He didn't actually complete very much while he was there, though (this was a recurring problem for him which only got worse in later life) -- his contribution over sixteen years was a couple of paintings [including, it must be said, the famous Last Supper, which would rapidly deteriorate after completion] and assistance with various pageants. His one attempt at something lasting and challenging, a giant bronze statue…
Had the Duke administered the 1% HR personality test it would surely weed out this Da Vinci guy.
Da Vinci: Well, my boss was captured by the French.
Interviewer: What!?
Da Vinci: Uh ... What I mean is I was looking for new growth opportunities, and Venice is obviously the employer of choice in this industry.
He didn't actually complete very much while he was there, though (this was a recurring problem for him which only got worse in later life) -- his contribution over sixteen years was a couple of paintings [including, it must be said, the famous Last Supper, which would rapidly deteriorate after completion] and assistance with various pageants. His one attempt at something lasting and challenging, a giant bronze statue…
Had the Duke administered the 1% HR personality test it would surely weed out this Da Vinci guy.
Earlier quoted context omitted.
I wonder how Da Vinci would feel to know that 500 years after he wrote this letter, it would be parodied by future men and their magical supercomputer tech.
Or that he was portrayed aiding and making weapons for assassins in a video game.