I fear we have shot our bolt - but we have been to Pole and done the longest journey on record.
Robert Falcon ScottRead
We are weak, writing is difficult, but for my own sake I do not regret this journey, which has shown that Englishmen can endure hardships, help one another, and meet death with as great a fortitude as ever in the past.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the challenges faced during a journey, emphasizing endurance and solidarity in the face of adversity.
In this quote, Robert Falcon Scott expresses the struggles endured during his expedition, acknowledging the difficulty of writing about these experiences. He conveys that despite the weaknesses and hardships encountered, he views the journey positively because it demonstrated the resilience and bravery of individuals, particularly the Englishmen, in facing challenges and embracing the human spirit in the face of death.
In practice
This quote is perfect for a motivational speech to inspire teams facing challenges.
I fear we have shot our bolt - but we have been to Pole and done the longest journey on record.
I can imagine few things more trying to the patience than the long wasted days of waiting.
Had we lived I should have had a tale to tell of the hardihood, endurance and courage of my companions which would have stirred the heart of every Englishman. These rough notes and our dead bodies must tell the tale.
As one looks across the barren stretches of the pack, it is sometimes difficult to realise what teeming life exists immediately beneath its surface.
But if we have been willing to give our lives to this enterprise, which is for the honour of our country, I appeal to our countrymen to see that those who depend on us are properly cared for.
But we have been to the Pole and we shall die like gentlemen. I regret only for the women we leave behind.
I most sincerely doubt if any other race of women could have brought its fineness up through so devilish a fire.
All great and honorable actions are accompanied with great difficulties, and both must be enterprised and overcome with answerable courage.
To dare is to lose one's footing momentarily. Not to dare is to lose oneself.
I belong to a nation which over the past centuries has experienced many hardships and reverses. The world reacted with silence or with mere sympathy when Polish frontiers were crossed by invading armies and the sovereign state had to succumb to brutal force.
African American patriotic heroism is always a curious spectacle. Often white political observers and politicians will praise Black people for their bravery, privately in awe of a people who continue to risk their lives for a country that will still barely let them vote.
Now my eyes are turned from the South to the North, and I want to lead one more Expedition. This will be the last... to the North Pole.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.