Chapter 30
The General's Inspection
“He’s coming!” shouted the signaler at that moment. The regimental commander, flushing, ran to his horse, seized the stirrup with trembling hands, threw his body across the saddle, righted himself, drew his saber, and with a happy and resolute countenance, opening his mouth awry, prepared to shout. The regiment fluttered like a bird preening its plumage and became motionless. “Att-ention!” shouted the regimental commander in a soul-shaking voice which expressed joy for himself, severity for the regiment, and welcome for the approaching chief. Along the broad country road, edged on both sides by trees, came a high, light blue Viennese…
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Critical Thinking Exercise
Map Your Power Dynamic
Think of a situation where someone with authority over you (boss, teacher, parent, landlord) is coming to evaluate your performance. Draw or write out the chain reaction: how does their presence change you, and how does your changed behavior affect others around you? Then identify what really matters versus what you're tempted to perform.
Consider:
- •Notice the difference between what you worry they'll judge versus what actually affects your performance
- •Consider how your anxiety might be making you overlook important things (like Kutúzov noticing the worn boots)
- •Think about whether this person is more like the nervous commander or the wise Kutúzov in how they evaluate others
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when you were being evaluated and either got caught up in the performance or managed to stay grounded in your actual competence. What did you learn about handling pressure from authority figures?
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