Courtiers Quote by Joseph Conrad
“The Westerly Wind asserting his sway from the south-west quarter is often like a monarch gone mad, driving forth with wild imprecations the most faithful of his courtiers to shipwreck, disaster, and death.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Lord Jim by Joseph Conrad, 1900
The metaphor compares a volatile wind to an irrational ruler, showing how uncontrolled forces can lead loyal followers into catastrophe.
In simple terms: A wild wind can ruin even the faithful.
Beware of reckless leadership.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political movements
- military campaigns
- organizational change
- environmental disasters
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does power become dangerous?
- When does loyalty become blind?
Not all winds are destructive; context matters.