Oct

22

Often we would remain absolutely still for several seconds even when out of distance. These were the most tiring periods for our brains were then undergoing that exhausting battle of wits which immediately preceded each phrase d'armes. The physical strain was truly severe. A fencer is irrevocably doomed the moment the lively flame in his eyes shows signs of diminishing in intensity. At times our eyes would not even blink for comparatively long periods for blinking at the wrong time, within striking distance meant giving the opponent the advantage. The slightest misjudgment in distance, or the smallest useless blade motion meant almost certain suicide for the one who erred.

—

I based my fencing upon the offensive defense of the counterattack and contretemps, as well as upon the third and fourth intention. Indeed the second intention was seldom successful against a champion like my brother.

from The Living Sword about his training bouts with Nado.


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2 Comments so far

  1. Paul on October 22, 2012 10:11 pm

    The bit regarding the third and fourth intention is fulfilling in my view. It’s always been my opinion that you should say the third thought that enters your mind when courting the opposite sex. The first thought is what everyone else says and so that won’t stand out; the second will be new but commonplace; but the third, that will always be unexpected, revered and almost always wholly original.

  2. douglas roberts dimick on October 28, 2012 12:08 pm

    Be it sex or swordplay…

    Be mindful of the Training Circle.

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