Time Quote by George R.R. Martin
““The Milkwater would take them past the Fist of the First Men, the ancient ringfort where the Night’s Watch had made its camp. Any man with a thimble of sense could see that it was time to pull up stakes and fall back on the Wall. The Old Bear had strengthened the Fist with spikes and pits and caltrops, but against such a host all that was pointless. If they stayed here, they would be engulfed and overwhelmed.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: A Song of Ice and Fire, “A Dance with Dragons”, 2011
The characters recognize a strategic retreat is necessary to avoid annihilation against overwhelming forces.
In simple terms: They must retreat to survive.
Know when to withdraw.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- battle planning
- political decision
- resource management
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is retreat a sign of strength?
- What are the costs of staying?
Retreat can be seen as defeat.