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So our reliance on the computers caused the failure of the…

“So our reliance on the computers caused the failure of the mission?" asked the expendable. "The mission didn't fail," said Ram. "It succeeded nineteen times. We're just the exhaust trail.” quote by Orson Scott Card
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““So our reliance on the computers caused the failure of the mission?" asked the expendable. "The mission didn't fail," said Ram. "It succeeded nineteen times. We're just the exhaust trail.””

Orson Scott Card

About This Quote

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

The quote suggests that perceived failures are often just by‑effects of success, not true defeats.

In simple terms: What looks like a failure may be a side‑effect of success.

Key Takeaway

Accept setbacks as part of progress.

Themes

failure success perception

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • project management
  • team dynamics
  • innovation cycles
  • learning from mistakes

Key Concepts

systems thinking outcome bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate between a side‑effect and a real error?
  • What can you learn from “exhaust trails”?
A Different Perspective

It may downplay legitimate errors needing correction.

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