As a nobleman, Montaigne could hope to attain high political office, perhaps becoming a royal steward or ambassador. But Montaigne's political career was a failure, which is how he became one of the most successful independent writers in history. He rose to the municipal level but his political career was encumbered by several somewhat random setbacks that he could not really control. Montaigne was cautious and patient, seeing these virtues as political strengths. He stayed loyal to whoever held authority. He remained Catholic, keeping religion and politics distinct, an uncommon position in 16th century France. While others frequently changed their beliefs for personal gain, Montaigne stayed true to his convictions. His best biographer Philippe Desan notes: "His failures in politics nonetheless allowed him to find the right tone for a new literary and philosophical genre that he built on the ruins of his career in public service. He made several attempts at politics before his book transformed him into a literary monument." Sometimes failure is a blessing. Destiny seems to prefer a clean slate.