Original artwork, not a still
If nothing else works, then a total pig-headed unwillingness to look facts in the face will see us through.
— Blackadder • 1983
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Melchett presents wilful denial as a dependable leadership technique. The complete lack of self-awareness is what gives the line its bite: he believes he has said something encouraging. It fits the series' military satire because the people furthest from danger can afford the most confidence in ignoring the facts.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for BlackadderShow the scene
In ‘Private Plane’, the fourth episode of Blackadder Goes Forth (1989), Blackadder and Baldrick have been captured by the Germans. At headquarters, George struggles to accept what may have happened to them. General Melchett welcomes his refusal to give up hope, then states the principle on which that optimism rests. The assurance is followed by the episode returning to the prisoners, whose predicament is considerably more real than the general's confidence.
Sources (2)
- Private Plane — episode subtitle transcriptBlackadder Goes Forth — Private Plane; quoted conversationReference checked
- Blackadder Goes Forth — WikiquotePrivate PlaneReference checked
Context reviewed
