Introduction
Shouldering the burden of moral integrity and facing the consequences head-on. This often cited and somewhat dusty phrase has its roots in the craft of woodcutting, urging one to focus on the primary task and disregard any incidental outcomes or “chips”.
Key Concept: “Hew to the Line, Let the Chips Fall Where They May”
Related Terms and Phrases:
- Stick to your guns
- Hold the line
- Stay the course
- Keep to the straight and narrow
- Letting the chips fall where they may
Related Proverbs and Expressions:
- “Let sleeping dogs lie.”
- “Steady as she goes.”
- “To thine own self be true.” – William Shakespeare
- “Fortune favors the brave.”
Humor-Filled Quote:
- “Hew to the line… and then grimace when the chips hit your face.”
Synonyms:
- Adhere to principles
- Remain steadfast
- Stay true
- Maintain integrity
Antonyms:
- Compromise principles
- Waver
- Falter
- Sway under pressure
Inspirational Quote:
- “Do what is right, not what is easy nor what is popular.” – Roy T. Bennett
Literary References:
- Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations – A treatise on personal integrity.
- Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird – The embodiment of moral steadfastness.
Song:
- “My Way” by Frank Sinatra – Celebrates living life on one’s terms.
Movies:
- A Few Good Men (1992) – Encapsulates the essence of standing firm for one’s beliefs.
- 12 Angry Men (1957) – Highlights adherence to one’s conscience.
### Where did the phrase originate?
- [ ] Shakespeare's Hamlet
- [x] Speech nominating Ulysses S. Grant at the Republican Convention of 1880
- [ ] Aesop’s Fables
- [ ] Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
> **Explanation:** The phrase "Hew to the line, let the chips fall where they may" was famously used in a speech by Roscoe Conkling nominating General Ulysses S. Grant at the Republican Convention of 1880.
### Which phrase has a similar meaning?
- [x] Stay true to your path
- [ ] Bend with the wind
- [ ] Go with the flow
- [ ] Let bygones be bygones
> **Explanation:** "Stay true to your path" conveys a similar meaning of maintaining one's course despite potential difficulties.
### Which describes someone ‘hewing to the line’?
- [ ] Changes opinions frequently
- [x] Remains committed to their principles
- [ ] Easily swayed by others
- [ ] Puts convenience above all else
> **Explanation:** Someone who ‘hews to the line’ is characterized by their commitment to their principles, irrespective of external pressures or consequences.
### True or False: 'Hew to the line' means to deviate from the set course.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False. 'Hew to the line' means to maintain a strict and unwavering adherence to a set course or ethical standard.
Conclusion
In a world where shortcuts and moral ambiguities abound, the doctrine of “hewing to the line” serves as a brightly shining compass, guiding us toward righteousness with unyielding tenacity.
“May you always hew to the line, and set your own path even when the chips tumble down.” – Verity Trueheart
