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Rikki-Tikki-Tavi" At the hole where he went in Red-Eye…

“Rikki-Tikki-Tavi" At the hole where he went in Red-Eye called to Wrinkle-Skin. Hear what little Red-Eye saith: "Nag, come up and dance with death!" Eye to eye and head to head, (Keep the measure, Nag.) This shall end when one is dead; (At thy pleasure, Nag.) Turn for turn and twist for twist…” quote by Rudyard Kipling
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““Rikki-Tikki-Tavi" At the hole where he went in Red-Eye called to Wrinkle-Skin. Hear what little Red-Eye saith: "Nag, come up and dance with death!" Eye to eye and head to head, (Keep the measure, Nag.) This shall end when one is dead; (At thy pleasure, Nag.) Turn for turn and twist for twist-- (Run and hide thee, Nag.) Hah! The hooded Death has missed! (Woe betide thee, Nag!)””

Rudyard Kipling

About This Quote

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

A vivid, rhythmic battle between a brave creature and death, emphasizing cunning and survival.

In simple terms: A fight with death where cleverness matters.

Key Takeaway

Stay alert and outwit danger.

Themes

courage survival wit conflict

Mood

tense defiant energetic

Type

literary dramatic inspirational

When to use this quote

  • wildlife encounters
  • dangerous situations
  • personal crises
  • competitive sports

Key Concepts

mythic archetype death motif heroic struggle

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you confront fear in daily life?
  • What strategies help you stay one step ahead?
A Different Perspective

The poetic style may romanticize violence, obscuring real risk.

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