He that has shipped the DEVIL must make the best of him

Insights

Irrevocable Commitments

This proverb serves as a powerful metaphor for being trapped in an undesirable or dangerous situation due to a past decision. It highlights the idea that some choices are irreversible, forcing a person to endure the consequences.

Pragmatism in a Crisis

It advises a pragmatic approach to a terrible situation. Once allied with a negative or corrupting force ('the Devil'), one must strategically manage the relationship to survive or mitigate damage, as outright opposition is no longer an option.

Consequence of Poor Judgment

The proverb implies that one is responsible for their predicament. By 'shipping the Devil', a person has made a calamitous error in judgment and must now face the inevitable, ongoing repercussions of that choice.

Nautical and Moral Entrapment

The proverb's nautical imagery, particularly resonant in a maritime nation like Britain, uses the ship as a microcosm of life or an enterprise. Bringing the 'Devil' aboard signifies a morally compromising or dangerous alliance from which there is no escape mid-journey, forcing one to manage an inherently perilous situation.

The Faustian Consequence

This proverb strongly echoes the Faustian bargain archetype, focusing on the grim reality after the deal is struck. It's less about the temptation and more about the pragmatic, often soul-crushing, necessity of dealing with the consequences of a pact with a malevolent force.

Psychology of Regret and Resignation

Psychologically, the proverb captures the essence of dealing with an irrevocable, regrettable decision. It advises a form of pragmatic resignation and damage control, suggesting that once a disastrous course is set, one must navigate the fallout with grim determination rather than succumb to despair.

Rhetorical Devices

Extended Metaphor

The entire proverb functions as a strong, coherent metaphor where 'shipping the Devil' represents any binding, dangerous agreement or alliance.

Symbolism

The 'Devil' is a potent symbol of ultimate evil, corruption, and betrayal, immediately conveying the extreme peril and moral compromise of the situation.

Modal Force

The phrase 'must make the best of him' employs a tone of grim necessity and forced pragmatism, emphasizing the lack of better options and the compulsory nature of the predicament.