Children Quote by N.D. Wilson
““Woman and children behind the lines!' he yelled, and all the girls jumped. Henry froze with his mouth open. 'Bang the drum slowly and ask not for whom the bell's ringing, for the answer's unfriendly!' He threw a fist in the air. 'Two years have my black ships sat before Troy, and today its gate shall open before the strength of my arm.' Dotty was laughing from the kitchen. Frank looked at his nephew. 'Henry, we play baseball tomorrow. Today we sack cities. Dots! Fetch me my tools! Down with the French! Once more into the breach, and fill the wall with our coward dead! Half a league! Half a league! Hey, batter, batter!' Frank brought his fist down onto the table, spilling Anastasia's milk, and then he struck a pose with both arms above his head and his chin on his chest. The girls cheered and applauded. Aunt Dotty stepped back into the dining room carrying a red metal toolbox.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Uncharted Frontier, N.D. Wilson, 2021
A chaotic, theatrical rally mixes war imagery with absurdity, showing how fervent speech can stir collective action despite underlying nonsense.
In simple terms: Loud, absurd rally incites people.
Key Takeaway
Recognize rhetoric’s power and its absurdity.
Themes
propaganda
war
absurdity
collective action
speech
leadership
Mood
intense
chaotic
dramatic
Type
political
theatrical
satirical
When to use this quote
- political rally
- military drill
- theatrical performance
- public persuasion
- revolutionary zeal
Key Concepts
mythic war rhetoric
psychology of crowds
satire
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes absurd rhetoric persuasive?
- How do symbols shape group behavior?
A Different Perspective
The speech may inspire blind obedience without critical thought.
