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They tried shooting at the squirrels, and they wasted many…

“They tried shooting at the squirrels, and they wasted many arrows before they managed to bring one down on the path. But when they roasted it, it proved horrible to taste, and they shot no more squirrels.” quote by J.R.R. Tolkien
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““They tried shooting at the squirrels, and they wasted many arrows before they managed to bring one down on the path. But when they roasted it, it proved horrible to taste, and they shot no more squirrels.””

J.R.R. Tolkien

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A fable about futile attempts at hunting squirrels, illustrating that the effort may be wasted and the result undesirable.

In simple terms: Repeated attempts can lead to a bad outcome.

Key Takeaway

Assess effort versus reward before acting.

Themes

effort futility consequences

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • project planning
  • hunting
  • resource management

Key Concepts

resource allocation risk assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should one stop a futile effort?
  • How to evaluate when effort is worthwhile?
A Different Perspective

Success isn’t guaranteed despite persistence.

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