In "Winter's Heart" by Robert Jordan, the author explores the essence of great leadership through the character of a captain. It highlights that true leaders are distinguished not merely by their capacity to craft excellent strategies but by their resilience in overcoming challenges when those strategies falter. This underscores the importance of adaptability in leadership.

The quote emphasizes that the hallmark of a great captain lies in their ability to navigate crises and secure victories despite unforeseen setbacks. It suggests that effective leadership requires not only foresight and planning but also the agility to respond effectively when circumstances change, showcasing the vital balance between strategy and real-time decision-making.