Timber Fred Quote by Frederick Douglass
““It was—"Fred., come help me to cant this timber here."—"Fred., come carry this timber yonder."—"Fred., bring that roller here."—"Fred., go get a fresh can of water."—"Fred., come help saw off the end of this timber."—"Fred., go quick, and get the crowbar."—"Fred., hold on the end of this fall."—"Fred., go to the blacksmith's shop, and get a new punch."—"Hurra, Fred! run and bring me a cold chisel."—"I say, Fred., bear a hand, and get up a fire as quick as lightning under that steam-box."—””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, 1845
The speaker repeatedly commands a worker named Fred to perform various tasks, illustrating the relentless demands placed on laborers.
In simple terms: A boss constantly orders a worker to do many jobs.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address overwork.
Themes
labor
authority
exploitation
Mood
frustrated
urgent
critical
Type
warning
observational.
When to use this quote
- construction site
- factory floor
- home chores
- emergency repairs
- manual labor
Key Concepts
power dynamics
worker rights
Questions to Reflect On
- What impact does constant demanding have on workers?
- How can authority be balanced with respect?
A Different Perspective
The quote may be dramatized or misattributed, lacking clear historical context.
![“To carry timber into the wood. [Lat., In silvam ligna ferre.]” quote by Horace](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c9c/horace-172_labor_to-carry-timber-into-the-wood-lat-in-sil_2294090.jpg)
