The English can laugh and at the same time strike you down, without the least compunction. It is the secret of their success as a nation.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The English can laugh while striking you down without remorse, a secret to their national success.
- In plain terms
- English people can combine humor with ruthless action, contributing to their success.
- What can you take from it?
- Humor can mask harsh actions, aiding effectiveness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When have you seen humor soften a harsh decision?
- Can humor ever be truly without compunction?
Another view
Generalizing a whole nation risks stereotyping.
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