Quote by Herman Melville, Billy Budd, Sai
A true military officer is in one particular like a true monk. Not with more self-abnegation will the latter keep his vows of monastic obedience than the former his vows of allegiance to martial duty.
Summary
This quote suggests that a truly dedicated military officer shares similarities with a genuinely committed monk. Both exhibit selflessness and unwavering dedication to their respective callings. The monk upholds his monastic obedience with utmost self-abnegation, just as the military officer faithfully fulfills his vows of loyalty and duty to protect and serve their country. The quote highlights the importance of wholeheartedly embracing one's role and responsibilities, regardless of the domain, and offers a parallel between the spiritual commitment of a monk and the devoted service of a military officer.