Skip to content

Afterwards the greedy Howeitat saw more oryx in the…

“Afterwards the greedy Howeitat saw more oryx in the distance and went after the beasts, who foolishly ran a little; then stood still and stared till the men were near, and, too late, ran away again. Their white shining bellies betrayed them; for, by the magnification of the mirage, they winked…” quote by T.E. Lawrence
Download Open image
““Afterwards the greedy Howeitat saw more oryx in the distance and went after the beasts, who foolishly ran a little; then stood still and stared till the men were near, and, too late, ran away again. Their white shining bellies betrayed them; for, by the magnification of the mirage, they winked each move to us from afar.””

T.E. Lawrence

About This Quote

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

A group chases a mirage-like creature, whose bright belly betrays it; they hesitate, then lose it again.

In simple terms: They pursue an illusion, hesitating and missing the chance.

Key Takeaway

Act decisively when opportunity appears.

Themes

illusion hesitation missed chances perception

Mood

reflective motivational

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • business negotiations
  • personal goals
  • search for truth

Key Concepts

philosophy human behavior decision making

Questions to Reflect On

  • What “white bellies” do you ignore in life?
  • How can you balance caution with swift action?
A Different Perspective

Overanalysis can cause loss of fleeting opportunities.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by T.E. Lawrence

Explore all 15 T.E. Lawrence quotes

More Too late quotes

Browse all 3,405 Too late quotes