What "Hamilton" Teaches Us About Success | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

What "Hamilton" Teaches Us About Success

How the biggest Broadway musical is teaching us that hard work is more important than talent.

163
What "Hamilton" Teaches Us About Success

Yes. I have become "Hamilton" trash. I have started singing the soundtrack at the top of my lungs to annoy everyone around me. I have given in. There’s no stopping me now.

But in all seriousness, I actually find the musical extremely inspiring, especially as a writer and actor myself. Lin-Manuel Miranda is in many cases an inspiration, because he creates the work that he wants to see, and does not let anyone stop or define him. Not only that, but he is extremely nice, and is doing all he can to bring theater to a younger audience.

What I want to talk about though is what the musical "Hamilton" teaches us about success, and the path to it. To give a quick summary, "Hamilton" tells the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton and his rise in American history. The show especially delves into his rivalry with Aaron Burr, who shoots him in the end. One of the big things this musical explores is Burr’s jealousy of Hamilton, and why exactly he is succeeding while Burr is left in the dust.

I think I had the realization one day when I was discussing the musical with my friend Julia. She stated how, “It’s interesting, because Burr is actually better than Hamilton at most things. But Hamilton works harder than he does, so he succeeds.”

This conversation occurred before I listed to the musical in more depth. But after listening, I understand what she means entirely. Throughout the musical, there is a ton of acknowledgement that Burr is smarter than Hamilton. He is more experienced, and Hamilton even acknowledges that Burr is a “better lawyer” than he is. But the reason why Hamilton succeeds against all odds is because he never stops working. As quoting the finale of Act 1, he is “non-stop”, writing at all times and being relentless in pursuit of what he wants. It does not even matter that he looks ridiculous, or if people don’t understand him. He fights all the time, Burr, on the other hand, keeps more to himself. He “Waits for it”, literally, over-thinking everything he does. In other words, he does not act immediately the way Hamilton does.

In a way, I also find it similar to the actual people who play Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton in real life; Leslie Odom Jr. and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Although both have had success, Mr. Miranda is the one receiving the genius grants and recognition. The interesting thing is that Leslie Odom Jr. is arguably a much better singer and actor than Lin-Manuel Miranda is. However, Miranda is starting to become a legend because he is an extremely hard-worker. People are forgetting that he started working on the show in 2009, and only now has the show gotten successful. In an interview, he even stated that it took him a year to write the number “My Shot.”

I believe this is the reason why I find the show so inspiring and so brilliant: because it is a reminder that talent is only a small part of the reason why anyone is successful. "Hamilton" reminds us that in order to get what you want, you need to work harder than anybody, but most importantly, you need to act as soon as possible. Furthermore, people often forget that getting what you want does not happen overnight. It sometimes takes years to get to the place you want to go, and good work not only takes a lot of effort, but a lot of time to perfect it.

So, go listen to "Hamilton," and use it as a reminder that the time to work at your craft and to pursue success is now… Do not throw away your shot.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

9632
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

4252
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

3110
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

2801
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments