Dogs bark and the caravan goes by.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The phrase "Dogs bark and the caravan goes by" encapsulates the idea that criticism or complaints will not deter the progress of someone or something. At its core, the saying reflects a deep-seated understanding of resilience and the inevitability of moving forward despite opposition.
Imagine a caravan making its way across a desert. The caravan is a massive, organized procession of people and goods, focused on their destination and purpose. The journey is long and arduous, but the caravan’s goal is clear, and it moves steadily toward it. Alongside this caravan, a few dogs are barking—perhaps disturbed by the dust or simply reacting to the unfamiliar sight of the caravan. The caravan, however, remains undeterred and continues on its path, unbothered by the noise made by the dogs.
This image paints a vivid picture of how progress and ambition often attract criticism or negativity. Just as the caravan is unaffected by the barking of the dogs, so too should individuals or organizations remain steadfast and focused despite external criticism or opposition. The barking of the dogs symbolizes the various voices of dissent, gossip, or obstacles that can arise when someone is pursuing a significant goal. These voices might be loud or persistent, but they do not impact the course of the caravan’s journey.
The saying also highlights the concept of perseverance. In life, as in the caravan’s journey, one’s path to success or achievement is rarely smooth and uninterrupted. There will always be detractors or challenges, but these should not be seen as stopping points. Instead, they are merely background noise to the main journey. By recognizing that these distractions are a natural part of pursuing one’s goals, individuals can maintain their focus and continue moving forward with determination.
In essence, "Dogs bark and the caravan goes by" teaches us that true progress requires ignoring irrelevant criticisms and staying committed to our goals. The barking dogs represent the unavoidable distractions and objections we encounter, while the caravan symbolizes our larger ambitions and the importance of remaining steadfast in their pursuit.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Dogs bark and the caravan goes by." is often attributed to Jose Mourinho (Quotes). Jose Mourinho is a renowned football manager with a successful career in Europe's top leagues.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.