🌟 Damn the Torpedoes! Proceed at Once 💥
💬 Origins and Usage
The battle cry, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” is a quotation attributed to Admiral David Glasgow Farragut during the Civil War’s pivotal Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864. This iconic expression of bold decisiveness has resonated through the centuries, urging persistence in the face of obstacles.
Historical Roots: When faced with a minefield (then called torpedoes), Farragut is said to have given this audacious order, choosing to advance rather than retreat. His gamble paid off, securing a crucial victory.
📚 Related Terms and Expressions
- Keep on Keeping on: Emphasizes the importance of persistence.
- Charge Ahead: Similar phrase urging bold action.
- Full Steam Ahead: Propulsive forward motion without hesitation.
🧠 Quotes and Literature References
From the annals of history to fiction and beyond, ardent expressions of “Damn the torpedoes” have peppered various texts:
In Robert Ludlum’s Apocalypse Watch (1995):
“If this administration can root out the Nazi influence … It’s damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead.”
Nevada Barr’s Burn (2010) reimagines this to:
“Your definition of ‘careful’ is vaguely analogous to most people’s definition of ‘damn the torpedoes.’”
Suggested Reading, Songs, and Films:
- Books: “Leadership in War: Essential Lessons " by Andrew Roberts
- Songs: “We Will Rock You” by Queen
- Movies: Braveheart (1995), Dir. Mel Gibson—a film vibrantly encapsulating the fighting spirit.
🎯 Fun with Clichés: Quizzes
Farewell Thought 🍃
“May your life be peppered with moments of ‘Damn the torpedoes!’ Take your own leap of faith as fearless adventurers of yore did. Carry this spirited battle cry in your heart.”
Everly yours,
E. C. Enthusiastic, 2023
