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That taught us how to block a sword with two knives. But…

“That taught us how to block a sword with two knives. But what if an ax man's coming at me?" Gilan looked suspicious. "An ax man? I don't recommend trying to block an ax with two knives." But Will wouldn't take no for an answer. "But what if he's charging at me?" Horace walked over. Gilan looked…” quote by John Flanagan
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““That taught us how to block a sword with two knives. But what if an ax man's coming at me?" Gilan looked suspicious. "An ax man? I don't recommend trying to block an ax with two knives." But Will wouldn't take no for an answer. "But what if he's charging at me?" Horace walked over. Gilan looked away. "Uh...shoot him." Horace intervened. "Can't, his bowstring's broken." Gilan gritted his teeth. "Run and hide." Will kept on him. "There's a sheer cliff behind me." Horace caught on. "There's a sheer cliff behind him, and his bowstring's broken. What should he do?" Gilan thought for a moment. "Jump off the cliff, it'll be less messy that way.””

John Flanagan

About This Quote

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

When faced with an unexpected threat, improvisation may lead to dangerous choices.

In simple terms: Improvising can be risky.

Key Takeaway

Think before acting impulsively.

Themes

strategy improvisation danger decisionmaking

Mood

tense reflective

Type

advice narrative

When to use this quote

  • battlefield
  • survival scenarios
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

risk assessment combat tactics problem solving

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safer alternatives exist?
  • How to balance speed and caution?
A Different Perspective

Improvisation may fail against superior force.

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