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What shall we do, what shall we do!” he cried. “Escaping…

“What shall we do, what shall we do!” he cried. “Escaping goblins to be caught by wolves!” he said, and it became a proverb, though we now say “out of the frying-pan into the fire” in the same sort of uncomfortable situations.” quote by J.R.R. Tolkien
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““What shall we do, what shall we do!” he cried. “Escaping goblins to be caught by wolves!” he said, and it became a proverb, though we now say “out of the frying-pan into the fire” in the same sort of uncomfortable situations.””

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.

Escaping one danger can lead directly into a greater one, illustrating the perils of hasty decisions.

In simple terms: Avoid swapping one problem for a worse.

Key Takeaway

Think before fleeing a danger.

Themes

risk decision‑making consequences

Mood

cautionary thought‑provoking

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • career change
  • financial crisis
  • relationship conflict
  • emergency response

Key Concepts

danger escalation proverbial wisdom storytelling

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is a quick escape justified?
  • How to assess the next risk?
A Different Perspective

Not all escapes lead to worse outcomes.

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