Armour... is part of a state of mind... in which you admit the possibility... of being hit

Armour... is part of a state of mind... in which you admit the possibility... of being hit

In the world of Joe Abercrombie's novels, particularly in his First Law series, the concept of armour goes beyond physical protection. It is not just about the metal plates that cover a warrior's body, but also about the mental fortitude and resilience that one must possess in order to face the harsh realities of battle and life.

The quote "Armour... is part of a state of mind... in which you admit the possibility... of being hit" perfectly encapsulates the ethos of Abercrombie's characters. They are not naive or overconfident in their abilities, but rather they understand that they are not invincible and that they must be prepared for the worst. This mindset allows them to be more cautious and strategic in their actions, knowing that they are not immune to failure or defeat.

In Abercrombie's world, where violence and betrayal are commonplace, wearing physical armour is not enough to ensure survival. One must also be mentally prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. This means acknowledging the possibility of failure, of being wounded or even killed, and yet still finding the courage to face these dangers head-on.

The characters in Abercrombie's novels are often flawed and morally ambiguous, but they all share a certain resilience and determination that allows them to persevere in the face of adversity. They understand that wearing armour is not just about protecting their bodies, but also about protecting their minds and spirits from the traumas of war and conflict.