“Nine-tenths of tactics are certain, and taught in books: but the irrational tenth is like the kingfisher flashing across the pool, and that is the test of generals.”
The Evolution of A Revolt (1920)
Context: Nine-tenths of tactics are certain, and taught in books: but the irrational tenth is like the kingfisher flashing across the pool, and that is the test of generals. It can only be ensured by instinct, sharpened by thought practicing the stroke so often that at the crisis it is as natural as a reflex.
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T. E. Lawrence 33
British archaeologist, military officer, and diplomat 1888–1935Related quotes
“Nine-tenths of wisdom is being wise in time.”
Source: Books, Coningsby (1844), Lothair (1870), Ch. 29.
“In the last analysis, Russia will do nine-tenths of the job of defeating Germany.”
Prediction made by King when speaking to reporters in Alexandria, Virginia on 30 November 1942. As quoted by Thomas B. Buell in his book Master of Sea Power: A Biography of Fleet Admiral Ernest J. King (1980), p. 265
1940s
Remark to Lucy Masterman (early 1909), quoted in Lucy Masterman, C. F. G. Masterman (Nicholson and Watson, 1939), p. 150.
Chancellor of the Exchequer
Baltimore Evening Sun (12 February 1923)
1920s
Context: The fact is that the average man's love of liberty is nine-tenths imaginary, exactly like his love of sense, justice and truth. He is not actually happy when free; he is uncomfortable, a bit alarmed, and intolerably lonely. Liberty is not a thing for the great masses of men. It is the exclusive possession of a small and disreputable minority, like knowledge, courage and honor. It takes a special sort of man to understand and enjoy liberty — and he is usually an outlaw in democratic societies.
The Problem of China (1922), Ch. XII: The Chinese Character
1920s
Source: The Economic Consequences of the Peace (1919), Chapter II, Section III, p. 20
“Nine-tenths of wisdom is appreciation. Go find somebody's hand and squeeze it, while there's time.”
Cited in: Colleen Zuck etal. (2002) Daily Word for Families, p. 167
"Lord Bacon", (1837) in Essays 2:183
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