Ships are but boards, sailors but men; there be land-rats…
“Ships are but boards, sailors but men; there be land-rats and water-rats, water-thieves and land-thieves, I mean pirates, and thenthere is the peril of waters, winds, and rocks.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human life is fraught with diverse dangers, both natural and moral, requiring vigilance and humility.
In simple terms: Life has many risks, both physical and ethical.
Key Takeaway
Stay aware of all threats.
Themes
risk
human nature
adversity
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- seafaring
- politics
- personal growth
- leadership
Key Concepts
existential
social
ethical
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance caution with courage?
- What dangers do you overlook?
A Different Perspective
Even with caution, unforeseen hazards can still arise.