Never break the neutrality of a port or place, but never consider as neutral any place from whence an attack is allowed to be made.
Horatio NelsonRead
Firstly, you must always implicitly obey orders, without attempting to form any opinion of your own respecting their propriety. Secondly, you must consider every man your enemy who speaks ill of your king; and thirdly, you must hate a Frenchman, as you do the devil.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of loyalty and obedience to authority, particularly in a military context.
Horatio Nelson, a celebrated naval commander, articulates a soldier's duty to unquestioningly follow orders, suppress personal opinions about their validity, and maintain hostility towards those who criticize their sovereign and adversaries. This perspective reflects the hierarchical nature of military culture and the necessity of unwavering allegiance during conflict.
Themes
LoyaltyObedienceAuthorityEnvyWarLeadership
In practice
Example use cases
Use this quote to emphasize the need for loyalty during a team project.
More from Horatio Nelson
All quotes →To do nothing was disgraceful; therefore I made use of my understanding.
Horatio NelsonRead
Let me alone: I have yet my legs and one arm. Tell the surgeon to make haste and his instruments. I know I must lose my right arm, so the sooner it's off the better.
Horatio NelsonRead
In honour I gained them, and in honour I will die with them.
Horatio NelsonRead
Duty is the great business of a sea officer; all private considerations must give way to it, however painful it may be.
Horatio NelsonRead
First gain the victory and then make the best use of it you can.
Horatio NelsonRead
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