Still the king would have turned away, but Schmendrick touched his arm and leaned near. It's true, you know, he whispered. But for him--but for them all--the tale would have worked out quite another way, and who can say that the ending would have been even as happy as this? You must be their king, and you must rule them as kindly as you would a braver and more faithful folk. For they are your fate.
In this passage from "The Last Unicorn," Schmendrick offers a poignant reflection on the nature of kingship and fate. He emphasizes that the current story and its happy ending hinge on the sacrifices and challenges faced by the characters. Without these trials, it's uncertain whether their conclusion would have been positive, hinting at the complexities of destiny and the impact of individual choices on the collective outcome.
Schmendrick urges the king to embrace his role with compassion and kindness, recognizing that his subjects, though flawed, are integral to his journey. This highlights the responsibility a leader has to govern with empathy, especially towards those deemed less brave or loyal. In essence, it suggests that true leadership involves understanding and nurturing one's people, as they play a crucial role in shaping the future.
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All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
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