Surely the best way to meet the enemy is head on in the field and not wait till they plunder our very homes

Surely the best way to meet the enemy is head on in the field and not wait till they plunder our very homes

Oliver Goldsmith, an Irish novelist, playwright, and poet, was known for his insightful and thought-provoking quotes that often reflected the political and social climate of his time. One such quote that resonates with many is, "Surely the best way to meet the enemy is head on in the field and not wait till they plunder our very homes."

This quote speaks to the idea of confronting challenges and adversaries directly, rather than waiting for them to come to us. Goldsmith believed in the importance of taking proactive measures to protect oneself and one's community, rather than being passive and reactive in the face of danger.

In the context of Goldsmith's own life and the turbulent times in which he lived, this quote takes on even greater significance. Born in Ireland in the early 18th century, Goldsmith witnessed firsthand the struggles of the Irish people against British colonial rule. He was a staunch advocate for Irish independence and often used his writing to criticize the injustices and inequalities faced by his fellow countrymen.

For Goldsmith, the idea of meeting the enemy head-on in the field was not just a metaphorical concept, but a call to action. He believed in standing up for what was right and fighting against oppression and tyranny, even if it meant risking one's own safety and security.

In today's world, Goldsmith's words still hold true. Whether it be in the face of political corruption, social injustice, or personal adversity, confronting challenges directly and taking a stand for what is right is often the best course of action. By being proactive and assertive in the face of adversity, we can prevent harm and protect ourselves and our communities from being plundered and exploited.