Don't talk to me about naval tradition. It's nothing but rum, sodomy, and the lash.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Churchill dismisses naval tradition as merely rum, sodomy, and the lash, using cynicism to undermine romanticized views of naval history.
- In plain terms
- He says naval tradition is really about drinking, sex, and punishment.
- What can you take from it?
- Traditions may hide harsh realities.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What hides behind tradition?
- How do we evaluate institutional culture?
Another view
The quote is hyperbolic and ignores positive aspects of naval service.
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You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give.
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