Tis the Set of the Sails and Not the Gales: An Exploration of Maritime Metaphor

The phrase “tis the set of the sails and not the gales” has been an oft-quoted adage for centuries, and has been attributed to a variety of sources. Primarily, the phrase is associated with the sea, as a metaphor for how the actions of the captain of a ship will determine its course, regardless of the winds and tides. It is a powerful message, one that speaks to the importance of taking action, and the wisdom of being proactive, rather than reactive.

The phrase “tis the set of the sails and not the gales” is a reference to the sails of a ship, which are the primary means of propulsion. By adjusting the sails, the captain of a ship can set the course, regardless of the winds and tides. A captain who sets the sails in the right direction will find his ship reaching its desired destination, while a captain who allows the winds and tides to determine the course of the ship will likely find himself struggling against the elements.

The phrase can also be interpreted as a metaphor for life. Our actions will determine our destiny, no matter the challenges and obstacles that we face. We can choose to take the proactive approach and set our sails towards our desired destination, or we can wait for the winds and tides to determine our fate. In either case, it is ultimately up to us to decide where we want to go.

The “tis the set of the sails and not the gales” metaphor is a powerful one, and has been a source of inspiration for generations. It speaks to the importance of taking action, and the wisdom of being proactive, rather than reactive. It is a reminder that we have the power to shape our own destiny, and that by setting our sails in the right direction, we can reach our desired destination.



The phrase “tis the set of the sails and not the gales” is a timeless metaphor for life and for success. It is a reminder that although the winds and tides may be out of our control, it is up to us to set our sails in the right direction. Ultimately, our actions will determine our destiny, and by taking the proactive approach, we can reach our desired destination.