Laurels grow in the Bay of Biscay, I hope a bed of them may be found in the Mediterranean.
Interpretation
This quote expresses a hope for future achievements and recognition, akin to resting on one's laurels.
Horatio Nelson's quote conveys the idea that he wishes for a continued legacy of success and recognition, as represented by laurels, which are traditionally a symbol of victory and accomplishment. By mentioning both the Bay of Biscay and the Mediterranean, he illustrates a desire for success to flourish in various regions, symbolizing a reach for broader significance and lasting impact.
In practice
This quote can be used in a commencement speech to inspire graduates about their future achievements.
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.
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.
To do nothing was disgraceful; therefore I made use of my understanding.
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.
In honour I gained them, and in honour I will die with them.
Duty is the great business of a sea officer; all private considerations must give way to it, however painful it may be.
I had great football players. To be quite truthful, my great football players, the ones who wanted the ball at the end of the games, they weren't focused on money. They want to do something great. They want to go to Pro Bowls. They want to win Super Bowls. Those are the people that succeed in sports - or in business.
Honor your calling. Everybody has one. Trust your heart and success will come to you.
No amount of reading or memorizing will make you successful in life. It is the understanding and application of wise thought which counts.
Luck is not chance, it's toil; fortune's expensive smile is earned.
The things you have that money won't buy are the things that will enable you to get more of the things that money will buy.
I base a lot of decisions on my gut, and going with an independent label was a good one.
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