In the statement, Merrick Garland acknowledges the unparalleled skill of Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes as a writer, suggesting that aspiring judges might aspire to emulate his exceptional prose but ultimately recognize it's an unattainable goal for most. This recognition underscores Holmes' unique ability and places him in a category beyond comparison.
The deeper meaning behind Garland’s words reflects on the nature of excellence and ambition within the legal profession. It highlights the importance of setting realistic goals while still striving to achieve greatness, even if one cannot match historical benchmarks exactly. By acknowledging the unattainable standard set by Holmes, Garland encourages judges and lawyers to appreciate great writing as an art form that inspires continual improvement rather than discouraging effort due to perceived insurmountable challenges.
Merrick Garland is a distinguished jurist who served on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit before being nominated in 2016 by President Barack Obama to the Supreme Court. Despite not securing confirmation, he has maintained a reputation for insightful and well-crafted legal opinions. His statement about Justice Holmes reflects both his respect for judicial writing excellence and his understanding of professional aspirations within the judiciary.
