In "The Son of Neptune" by Rick Riordan, the character Percy is confronted with a challenging situation where a taunt forces him to choose between standing still in fear or taking action. The line captures the essence of courage and the instinct for survival, highlighting Percy's determination not to succumb to threats or danger. Instead of following the call to remain passive, Percy exemplifies bravery by opting to confront whatever challenges lie ahead.

This moment emphasizes the theme of resilience in the face of adversity. Percy’s decision to run rather than stand still reflects the idea that true courage involves taking steps forward, even when faced with frightening circumstances. This instills a sense of empowerment and showcases the importance of action over inaction, illustrating that running away can sometimes be a stronger choice than facing danger head-on without preparation.