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Assuming Quote by Eric Nicol

“If the rest of his foursome are bunched directly behind his ball, or assume the foetal position with their backs to the tee, the golfer is reminded that his drive tends to be erratic. More cruel yet is for his opponent to stand directly in the projected line of flight, as the safest place to be.” quote by Eric Nicol
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“If the rest of his foursome are bunched directly behind his ball, or assume the foetal position with their backs to the tee, the golfer is reminded that his drive tends to be erratic. More cruel yet is for his opponent to stand directly in the projected line of flight, as the safest place to be.”

Eric Nicol

About This Quote

Source Column: The New Yorker, 1972

He uses a golf metaphor to illustrate how a player’s erratic drive can be exploited by opponents positioning themselves in its projected path.

In simple terms: Golf metaphor shows how erratic actions can be targeted.

Key Takeaway

Be aware of how your actions affect others.

Themes

strategy competition metaphor

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

strategic metaphorical

When to use this quote

  • sports coaching
  • business negotiations
  • team dynamics
  • risk management

Key Concepts

risk assessment opponent positioning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you anticipate others’ reactions to your actions?
  • What strategies mitigate unpredictable outcomes?
A Different Perspective

The analogy may oversimplify complex strategic scenarios.

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