We shall sooner have the fowl by hatching the egg than by…
“We shall sooner have the fowl by hatching the egg than by smashing it. Abraham Lincoln, White House speech 11 April 1865. Or arm th' obdured breast With stubborn patience as with triple steel.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Patience and gentle effort achieve results better than forceful destruction.
In simple terms: Patience beats brute force.
Key Takeaway
Practice patient, steady action.
Themes
patience
strategy
non‑violence
Mood
calm
reflective
Type
ethical
historical
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- parenting
- project management
Key Concepts
ethics
conflict resolution
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you chosen patience over aggression?
- What tools help you stay patient?
A Different Perspective
Patience can be slow and frustrating.