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If you please, Admiral, don't be a cock. I'll know it when…

“If you please, Admiral, don't be a cock. I'll know it when I see it, and if, for some reason, I don't, you tell me, alright?" Admiral Lacker inclined his head almost imperceptibly to indicate that they had a deal. He would endeavor to be as little of a cock as possible.” quote by Lev Grossman
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““If you please, Admiral, don't be a cock. I'll know it when I see it, and if, for some reason, I don't, you tell me, alright?" Admiral Lacker inclined his head almost imperceptibly to indicate that they had a deal. He would endeavor to be as little of a cock as possible.””

Lev Grossman

About This Quote

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

The speaker asks the Admiral to avoid being a “cock,” pledging to stay modest and keep their agreement.

In simple terms: Seek humility and honor agreements.

Key Takeaway

Practice modesty.

Themes

humility honor agreement

Mood

thoughtful conversational

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • military etiquette
  • team dynamics
  • personal integrity

Key Concepts

personal conduct leadership

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you maintain humility?
  • What are the limits of modesty?
A Different Perspective

Interpretation of “cock” may be ambiguous.

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