When it comes to being good at something creative, what matters more - natural talent or sheer hard work?

A natural way to answer

I think it's a false choice, in a way. Talent without discipline tends to plateau, while relentless practice without any natural feel can produce competent but soulless work. The truly exceptional ones marry the two - they have a spark, but they also put in the hours. If I had to pick, though, I'd say persistence is what ultimately sets people apart.

Key phrases to use

• lived up to — reached the standard or potential that was expected“The film didn't live up to the hype.”
• sets people apart — makes someone clearly different from and better than others“It's her work ethic that sets her apart.”
• done to death — repeated or discussed so often that it has become boring“That topic has been done to death.”