“A hundred struggle and drown in the breakers. One discovers the new world. But rather, ten times rather, die in the surf, heralding the way to that new world, than stand idly on the shore.”
- May 12, 1820 – August 13, 1910
- Born in the Grand Duchy of Tuscany (Italy)
- Nurse, statistician
- Established modern nursing, promoted sanitary reform through her work in the Crimean War, and wrote “Notes on Nursing”
Quote
“A hundred struggle and drown in the breakers. One discovers the new world. But rather, ten times rather, die in the surf, heralding the way to that new world, than stand idly on the shore.”
Explanation
In this quote, Florence Nightingale speaks to the risks and sacrifices inherent in pioneering new paths or undertaking difficult work. She uses the metaphor of struggling in the surf to describe the challenges that those who seek to innovate or make meaningful change must endure. While many may fail—represented by the hundred who drown in the breakers—there is always the possibility that one person will succeed in discovering a “new world”, or a transformative idea or solution. Nightingale suggests that the sacrifices made by those who take bold actions are worthwhile, and that it is far better to take risks and push forward, even if it leads to failure, than to remain passive or complacent on the sidelines.
Nightingale herself was a prime example of someone who was willing to venture into uncharted waters. She faced immense challenges in her reform efforts, especially as a woman in the 19th century attempting to professionalize nursing and introduce hygiene practices in hospitals. She was often criticized and met with resistance, but she believed in the greater good that could come from her work. Nightingale understood that great progress—whether in healthcare, society, or other fields—often requires persistence in the face of adversity and a willingness to fail in order to eventually succeed. Her quote captures this spirit of courage and conviction, encouraging others to be bold in their pursuits, even if it means facing hardship along the way.
The message of this quote resonates strongly in contemporary contexts of innovation, social change, and leadership. Many of the greatest breakthroughs in science, medicine, and social progress have come from those who were willing to take risks and challenge the status quo, even when the odds of success seemed slim. Nightingale’s advocacy for nursing reform and sanitation in hospitals, for example, was initially met with skepticism and resistance, but her work laid the groundwork for modern healthcare practices that continue to save lives. In a world where progress often depends on the willingness to embrace the unknown, Nightingale’s message encourages us to strive for meaningful change, even if the path is difficult and fraught with obstacles.
