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Best man Quote by John Flanagan

“Gundar's smile broadened at the memory of that evening as he recalled how his rough-and-tumble sailors had stayed on their best manners, humbly asking their table companions to pass the meat, please, or requesting just a little more ale in their drinking mugs. These were men who were accustomed to…” quote by John Flanagan
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““Gundar's smile broadened at the memory of that evening as he recalled how his rough-and-tumble sailors had stayed on their best manners, humbly asking their table companions to pass the meat, please, or requesting just a little more ale in their drinking mugs. These were men who were accustomed to cursing heartily, tearing legs off roast boar wih their bare hands and occasionally swilling ale traight from the keg. Their attempts at mingling with polite society would have made the basis of some great stories back in Skandia.””

John Flanagan

About This Quote

Source Book: The Ranger's Apprentice series, The Lost Stories, John Flanagan, 2011

A rough sailor recalls a night of polite manners, contrasting their wild habits with refined society.

In simple terms: Rough men tried to be polite.

Key Takeaway

Respectful behavior can bridge cultural gaps.

Themes

culture clash etiquette humor identity adaptation

Mood

lighthearted reflective

Type

anecdotal humorous

When to use this quote

  • dinner parties
  • first meetings
  • team bonding
  • cross‑cultural events

Key Concepts

social norms civilization self‑presentation humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does etiquette reveal or hide true nature?
  • When is adapting manners worthwhile?
A Different Perspective

Politeness may feel forced and mask true character.

4.9 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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