We Few, We Happy Few, We Band of Brothers (leadership post)

artofmanliness.com ^ | September 13, 2008 | Brett & Kate McKay

[Publius804]

We Few, We Happy Few, We Band of Brothers

Knowing how to inspire and [5] lead others is an essential manly attribute. In Shakespeare’s Henry V, King Henry exemplifies manliness in action as he rallies his army against the highly skilled French knights. In his “Saint Crispin’s Day” speech, Henry V speaks of glory, honor, and brotherhood- all ideals that inspire even the most despairing and downtrodden of men. Read this fictional, and yet powerful speech when you’re feeling unmotivated and depressed. It will stir you to focus on the legacy you are building and will pass on to your sons and to history.

“St. Crispin’s Day Speech”

By: William Shakespeare

KING. What’s he that wishes so? My cousin Westmoreland? No, my fair cousin; If we are mark’d to die, we are enow To do our country loss; and if to live, The fewer men, the greater share of honour. God’s will! I pray thee, wish not one man more. By Jove, I am not covetous for gold, Nor care I who doth feed upon my cost; It yearns me not if men my garments wear; Such outward things dwell not in my desires. But if it be a sin to covet honour, I am the most offending soul alive. No, faith, my coz, wish not a man from England. God’s peace! I would not lose so great an honour As one man more methinks would share from me For the best hope I have. O, do not wish one more! Rather proclaim it, Westmoreland, through my host, That he which hath no stomach to this fight, Let him depart; his passport shall be made, And crowns for convoy put into his purse; We would not die in that man’s company That fears his fellowship to die with us.

[Natural Law]

I do so pity those who have never worn the uniform of an American Soldier, Sailor, Airman, or Marine. They have never known the pride of being a member of that exclusive club, that “Band of Brothers”. They have never known the swelling in the chest when they get the nod of acceptance from an old, grizzled vet of campaigns long forgotten or often remembered. They have never felt the flush when they get the sideways glance and smile of a pretty girl, or the look of envy or fear from a street punk.

[MS.BEHAVIN]

Wonderful, Publius804!
Thanks!
Pinging a friend..

[Skooz]

Shakespeare at his finest.

Reading Henry V, and this incredible pep talk to his troops before Agincourt, makes the hairs stand up on my neck. Powerful words, indeed.

I highly recommend the Kenneth Branagh movie version.

[rahbert]

Branagh had a great writer and Patrick Doyle’s theme made
that one of my favorite movie moments.

[wtc911]

Cops and Fire Fighters know it.

[Natural Law]

"Cops and Fire Fighters know it.

I imagine they do.

[Old Sarge]

But if it be a sin to covet honour, I am the most offending soul alive.

The money quote for me.