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Bad language Quote by Colum McCann

“...if he fell, well, he fell—but if he survived he would become a monument, not carved in stone or encased in brass, but one of those New York monuments that made you say: Can you believe it? With an expletive. There would always be an expletive in a New York sentence. Even from a judge. Soderberg…” quote by Colum McCann
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““...if he fell, well, he fell—but if he survived he would become a monument, not carved in stone or encased in brass, but one of those New York monuments that made you say: Can you believe it? With an expletive. There would always be an expletive in a New York sentence. Even from a judge. Soderberg was not fond of bad language, but he knew its value at the right time. A man on a tightrope, a hundred and ten stories in the air, can you possibly fucking believe it?””

Colum McCann

About This Quote

Source Novel: Let the Great World Roll On by Colum McCann, 2019

Risk and daring can turn a near‑failure into a legendary story that captures public imagination.

In simple terms: Bold risk can create lasting fame.

Key Takeaway

Embrace daring moments.

Themes

risk legend language culture

Mood

intense defiant

Type

narrative inspirational

When to use this quote

  • tightrope performance
  • public speaking
  • creative writing
  • media coverage

Key Concepts

heroism public perception media

Questions to Reflect On

  • What risk could become your legend?
  • When does daring become reckless?
A Different Perspective

Not all risks pay off; fame can be fleeting.

4.7 out of 5 (3 ratings)

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