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A Message to Garcia
Before becoming the basis for two motion pictures, A Message to Garcia was written as an inspirational essay by Elbert Hubbard. This popular work is about a soldier who takes the initiative to accomplish a daunting and difficult task without questions or objections and graciously accomplishes the task. Often used in business and life as a motivational example to readers of applying a positive attitude towards achieving a successful life.
48 pages, Paperback
First published February 22, 1899
About the author
Elbert Hubbard
2,481 books381 followersElbert Green Hubbard was an American writer, publisher, artist, and philosopher. He was an influential exponent of the Arts and Crafts movement and is, perhaps, most famous for his essay A Message to Garcia.
Also known as Fra Elbert Green, for the magazine he edited, Fra.
from http://freepages.history.rootsweb.anc...
For a more detailed look at this life, see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elbert_H...
Also known as Fra Elbert Green, for the magazine he edited, Fra.
from http://freepages.history.rootsweb.anc...
For a more detailed look at this life, see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elbert_H...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
June 5, 2023
The father of a close friend suggested I read this book before I went into the Army. Glad I did - helped me through boot camp. Teaches you to understand how orders and individuality can come together to accomplish your mission. If you know of someone going into the military this would be a great book for them to read before going in.
April 19, 2018
I found the story of the story as fascinating as the story itself.
The little article was written (the author explains in the forward "Apologia"), after a conversation between his young sons about who the 'real' hero of the Spanish-American War was. One son asserted that is was actually Col. Andrew Summers Rowan, whom had been summoned by Pres. McKinley to deliver a message secretly to the leader of the insurgents, General Garcia, in Cuba. The problem was that no one quite knew for sure where Garcia was. Rowan (only a Lt. at the time) was sent to find him and deliver the message as quickly as possible, alone and unguarded. He managed to find him in the (then) jungles on Cuba after only 4 days, and the later victory that happened was surely as a result of this. Rowan ended up being decorated for deed, and Pres. McKinley said "I regard this achievement as one of the most hazardous and heroic deeds in military warfare."
Upon reflecting on the conversation between his sons, the author realized that the one son was accurate, and wrote the article in the space of an hour for his magazines. He enlarged the meaning of the heroics Rowan did to apply to other areas of life-- labor, politics, family, etc. asking why are there not more Rowans in this world who are willing to go the extra mile and give something their all. He didn't highly regard it-- didn't even title it, but looked at it as more filler between the other stuff. When record numbers started pouring in for copies of reprints, he figured out it was for this one article. It ended up in a visiting Prince from Russia's hands who took it back, had it translated and distributed to every soldier then serving in the Russian Army during the Russo-Japanese War. Upon taking Russian soldiers prisoners-of-war and finding a copy of this on each of them, the Japanese Government decided it must be very important and had it translated, and on order of the Mikado, had a copy distributed to every government employee-- soldier or civilian. By 1913, more copies had been printed world-wide than "any other literary venture has ever attained during the lifetime of its author, in all history-- thanks to a series of lucky accidents." (1913 figures)
The author, Elbert Hubbard, was well known at the time, not only for publishing his magazines "The Philistine" and "The Fra", but also printing fine editions of books out of his publishing firm, The Roycroft Shop. He perished on board the Lusitania when it was sank by a German torpedo in 1915.
The little article was written (the author explains in the forward "Apologia"), after a conversation between his young sons about who the 'real' hero of the Spanish-American War was. One son asserted that is was actually Col. Andrew Summers Rowan, whom had been summoned by Pres. McKinley to deliver a message secretly to the leader of the insurgents, General Garcia, in Cuba. The problem was that no one quite knew for sure where Garcia was. Rowan (only a Lt. at the time) was sent to find him and deliver the message as quickly as possible, alone and unguarded. He managed to find him in the (then) jungles on Cuba after only 4 days, and the later victory that happened was surely as a result of this. Rowan ended up being decorated for deed, and Pres. McKinley said "I regard this achievement as one of the most hazardous and heroic deeds in military warfare."
Upon reflecting on the conversation between his sons, the author realized that the one son was accurate, and wrote the article in the space of an hour for his magazines. He enlarged the meaning of the heroics Rowan did to apply to other areas of life-- labor, politics, family, etc. asking why are there not more Rowans in this world who are willing to go the extra mile and give something their all. He didn't highly regard it-- didn't even title it, but looked at it as more filler between the other stuff. When record numbers started pouring in for copies of reprints, he figured out it was for this one article. It ended up in a visiting Prince from Russia's hands who took it back, had it translated and distributed to every soldier then serving in the Russian Army during the Russo-Japanese War. Upon taking Russian soldiers prisoners-of-war and finding a copy of this on each of them, the Japanese Government decided it must be very important and had it translated, and on order of the Mikado, had a copy distributed to every government employee-- soldier or civilian. By 1913, more copies had been printed world-wide than "any other literary venture has ever attained during the lifetime of its author, in all history-- thanks to a series of lucky accidents." (1913 figures)
The author, Elbert Hubbard, was well known at the time, not only for publishing his magazines "The Philistine" and "The Fra", but also printing fine editions of books out of his publishing firm, The Roycroft Shop. He perished on board the Lusitania when it was sank by a German torpedo in 1915.
November 29, 2015
This little tract was written in 1899 after a long and trying day where the author could not seem to get any of his employees to do what he expected of them. He explains this in his 'Apologia' section at the beginning.
A friend commented that a man by the name of Rowan was the true hero of the Spanish-American war in Cuba, because he accepted with no questions the order to carry an important message to Garcia, a leader somewhere in the wilds of Cuba. And he managed to get the job done without asking how he should do it or why. He just did it.
He had an interesting mix of self-motivation and blind obedience, which seems to be what Hubbard felt was the ideal in any employee. Any person in general, actually.
Hubbard vented his frustrations about his trying day, and published 'the trifle' in his magazine. Then he was surprised to receive a telegram asking prices for thousands of copies. He could not supply so many with his limited printing facilities, so he sold the rights of the trifle to the sender of the telegram, who printed it up as a little booklet and reprinted it in magazines all around the world. The booklet was distributed to soldiers of the Russian Army during their war with Japan. Some came into the hands of the Japanese, and the Mikado at the time ordered a copy given to each man in the employ of the Japanese government, whether civilian or soldier.
By 1914, the date of publication of the edition I read at Gutenberg, there had been 40 million copies of 'A Message to Garcia' printed.
So what was all the fuss about? Basically it says Do Your Job With 100% Of Yourself. Be Honest. Be Self-Reliant. Be Obedient To Your Superiors. The tract seems both encouraging and complaining at the same time. You can certainly feel the author's frustration with his employees: the piece is really simply venting that seems to have caught the world's imagination at just the right moment.
The points made are still valid in today's world, but Hubbard would probably have an even harder time
finding his perfect employee, simply because of the way giant corporations have treated workers for so many years now. The man or woman who can 'carry a message to Garcia' these days is either worked to death or underpaid or both. I wonder if there ever will be a proper balance between employee and employer, the type of relationship where respect goes both ways and giving 100% of oneself on both sides is not the exception but the standard.
Thanks to GR friend Kaj for the recommendation!
A friend commented that a man by the name of Rowan was the true hero of the Spanish-American war in Cuba, because he accepted with no questions the order to carry an important message to Garcia, a leader somewhere in the wilds of Cuba. And he managed to get the job done without asking how he should do it or why. He just did it.
He had an interesting mix of self-motivation and blind obedience, which seems to be what Hubbard felt was the ideal in any employee. Any person in general, actually.
Hubbard vented his frustrations about his trying day, and published 'the trifle' in his magazine. Then he was surprised to receive a telegram asking prices for thousands of copies. He could not supply so many with his limited printing facilities, so he sold the rights of the trifle to the sender of the telegram, who printed it up as a little booklet and reprinted it in magazines all around the world. The booklet was distributed to soldiers of the Russian Army during their war with Japan. Some came into the hands of the Japanese, and the Mikado at the time ordered a copy given to each man in the employ of the Japanese government, whether civilian or soldier.
By 1914, the date of publication of the edition I read at Gutenberg, there had been 40 million copies of 'A Message to Garcia' printed.
So what was all the fuss about? Basically it says Do Your Job With 100% Of Yourself. Be Honest. Be Self-Reliant. Be Obedient To Your Superiors. The tract seems both encouraging and complaining at the same time. You can certainly feel the author's frustration with his employees: the piece is really simply venting that seems to have caught the world's imagination at just the right moment.
The points made are still valid in today's world, but Hubbard would probably have an even harder time
finding his perfect employee, simply because of the way giant corporations have treated workers for so many years now. The man or woman who can 'carry a message to Garcia' these days is either worked to death or underpaid or both. I wonder if there ever will be a proper balance between employee and employer, the type of relationship where respect goes both ways and giving 100% of oneself on both sides is not the exception but the standard.
Thanks to GR friend Kaj for the recommendation!
January 30, 2011
Wow... should I be worried that my boss asked me to read this? He said it was "really good", I found it to be bullshit corporate propaganda.
January 12, 2023
There is no doubt that all the employers dream of hard-working, motivated and devoted employees. That is why some of them make all their subordinates (in my case) read this 19 century essay condemning 'the imbecility of the average man' and 'the inability or unwillingness to concentrate on a thing and do it.' where author also reprobates 'slipshod assistance, foolish inattention, dowdy indifference, and half-hearted work' which seem to be 'the rule; and no man succeeds, unless by hook or crook, or threat, he forces or bribes other men to assist him; or mayhap, God in His goodness performs a miracle, and sends him an Angel of Light for an assistant.'
But where are those 'whose form should be cast in deathless bronze and the statue placed in every college in the land.'? asks the author. Those who are 'loyal to a trust, act promptly, concentrate their energies; do the thing - 'carry a message to Garcia'? Unfortunately, 'the employer who grows old before his time in a vain attempt to get frowsy ne’er-do-wells to do intelligent work; and his long patient striving with “help” that does nothing but loaf when his back is turned.'
The author concludes that 'Civilization is one long anxious search for just ' an employeer who 'does his work when the “boss” is away, as well as when he is home. And the man who, when given a letter for Garcia, quietly takes the missive, without asking any idiotic questions, and with no lurking intention of chucking it into the nearest sewer, or of doing aught else but deliver it.'
I read the essay out of curiosity and because it is short but I am afraid, did not find either inspiring (as was intended) or worth attention. It seems to belong to 19th century.
But where are those 'whose form should be cast in deathless bronze and the statue placed in every college in the land.'? asks the author. Those who are 'loyal to a trust, act promptly, concentrate their energies; do the thing - 'carry a message to Garcia'? Unfortunately, 'the employer who grows old before his time in a vain attempt to get frowsy ne’er-do-wells to do intelligent work; and his long patient striving with “help” that does nothing but loaf when his back is turned.'
The author concludes that 'Civilization is one long anxious search for just ' an employeer who 'does his work when the “boss” is away, as well as when he is home. And the man who, when given a letter for Garcia, quietly takes the missive, without asking any idiotic questions, and with no lurking intention of chucking it into the nearest sewer, or of doing aught else but deliver it.'
I read the essay out of curiosity and because it is short but I am afraid, did not find either inspiring (as was intended) or worth attention. It seems to belong to 19th century.
August 30, 2007
SO first of all I have to say this book is CRAP! Its not even a book. I personally believe it is propaganda, and that it is NOT a coincidence that the author's name is very similar to one L. Ron Hubbard. Hmmmmm....is this really the stuff that we should have our junior Marines reading? I read it as a Lance Corporal (just a lowly E-3), and I hated it. Just one more excuse for someone to chew me out. "Didn't you read A Message to Garcia...LANCE corporal?!" Whatever.
However now that I am an NCO (finally), I am beginning to see the merits of this tiny 3 page pamphlet. I find myself asking other junior Marines the same question I was asked. I could go into a long diatribe of poor leadership and whether or not I am a failure, but I won't.
Anyway. I don't remember what my point was.
However now that I am an NCO (finally), I am beginning to see the merits of this tiny 3 page pamphlet. I find myself asking other junior Marines the same question I was asked. I could go into a long diatribe of poor leadership and whether or not I am a failure, but I won't.
Anyway. I don't remember what my point was.
August 25, 2007
Some marks may be granted to Mr. Hubbard for his endeavor to demonstrate his idea of the proper way to accomplish a task. However, his notion of very integral parts of completing any undertaking is quite misconceived. To describe A Message To Garcia, in the most gracious way, is to say that the point intended was poorly made.
The author’s fervent admiration of an honest work ethic is to be commended, no doubt. His devotion to the matter seems complete, if not somewhat overly zealous. However, he has chosen a meager subject to illustrate this lesson about doing “intelligent work.” Throughout this writing, the author incessantly berates “foolish inattention” and “imbecility.” This leaves one to wonder if he has considered the “hero” of his own story, Lieutenant Andrew Summers Rowan. For what could possibly be more negligent than to accept a missive without first knowing the particulars of the undertaking? What act speaks more clearly to the quality of ignorance than to tempestuously jump headlong into one’s mission. Hubbard has chosen a simpleton to be the antithesis of “half-hearted work.” While he applauds Rowan for not “asking any idiotic questions,” he should be contemplating the consequences of the very same action.
What is even more appalling than Hubbard’s open contempt for the independent-minded worker is his misconstrued idea of the book’s importance to it’s recipients. Undeniably, there are opinions voiced in this work that do appeal to some. However, it is doubtable that every Russian railroad employee felt deeply dignified to be in possession of the booklet when ownership had clearly been imposed upon them. One must question the author’s image of the ideal, appreciative reader. “The Japanese, finding the booklets in possession of the Russian prisoners, concluded that it must be a good thing,” Of course! Why not give it to “every man in the employ of the Japanese Government?” Perhaps they too may one day be privileged enough to be caught in the prison of mental subservience with a copy of the book on their persons.
In conclusion, it is evident that not only did Elbert Hubbard misjudge the importance of the information gathering process as it pertains to task completion, but he also grossly overestimated the relevance of his own advice. As for the matter of Rowan’s success in his quest, it is no secret. It’s outlined clearly in the Publisher’s Note of the book. Sure, he got to Cuba all by his self. Once there, “he was furnished with native guides.” Rest assured that they had thought to ask where Garcia was! I dare say that had it not been for those same guides it would be a much different tale to be told. There would have been no message to Garcia…………
Just an epitaph for Rowan.
The author’s fervent admiration of an honest work ethic is to be commended, no doubt. His devotion to the matter seems complete, if not somewhat overly zealous. However, he has chosen a meager subject to illustrate this lesson about doing “intelligent work.” Throughout this writing, the author incessantly berates “foolish inattention” and “imbecility.” This leaves one to wonder if he has considered the “hero” of his own story, Lieutenant Andrew Summers Rowan. For what could possibly be more negligent than to accept a missive without first knowing the particulars of the undertaking? What act speaks more clearly to the quality of ignorance than to tempestuously jump headlong into one’s mission. Hubbard has chosen a simpleton to be the antithesis of “half-hearted work.” While he applauds Rowan for not “asking any idiotic questions,” he should be contemplating the consequences of the very same action.
What is even more appalling than Hubbard’s open contempt for the independent-minded worker is his misconstrued idea of the book’s importance to it’s recipients. Undeniably, there are opinions voiced in this work that do appeal to some. However, it is doubtable that every Russian railroad employee felt deeply dignified to be in possession of the booklet when ownership had clearly been imposed upon them. One must question the author’s image of the ideal, appreciative reader. “The Japanese, finding the booklets in possession of the Russian prisoners, concluded that it must be a good thing,” Of course! Why not give it to “every man in the employ of the Japanese Government?” Perhaps they too may one day be privileged enough to be caught in the prison of mental subservience with a copy of the book on their persons.
In conclusion, it is evident that not only did Elbert Hubbard misjudge the importance of the information gathering process as it pertains to task completion, but he also grossly overestimated the relevance of his own advice. As for the matter of Rowan’s success in his quest, it is no secret. It’s outlined clearly in the Publisher’s Note of the book. Sure, he got to Cuba all by his self. Once there, “he was furnished with native guides.” Rest assured that they had thought to ask where Garcia was! I dare say that had it not been for those same guides it would be a much different tale to be told. There would have been no message to Garcia…………
Just an epitaph for Rowan.
September 4, 2013
Very good story. Very Short. Worth a try.
As I read the introduction (which is only a few pages itself) I wondered, why am I reading this and what is the point? Well, it gets to the point pretty quickly. It's a 10 minute read.
Very plain an simple, despite a few old timey phrases and a few words I had to look up, but even so I understood it well. It's about Honor, principal, values, and hard work. "Do your job" it exclaims.
It's not about Garcia but about Rowan the man who did his job (taking the letter to Garcia). The way I interpreted the story, it is not about being a YES SIR, WHAT EVER YOU SAY SIR, RIGHT AWAY SIR, I'LL KISS YOUR BOATS SIR! person. On the surface, yes it says 'ask no questions and do your work' but it is about hard workers--qualified works--who get no praise for what they have to deal with all day while working FOR and WITH incompetent slackers who wont or cant do anything and would find any means to escape duty.
It may not be a perfect book but much can be gained from it.
What I take from this book is essential. Applying it is essential.
I want to be Rowan. A person who is respected and deserves it. A person who knows how to accomplish something. To know when to ask questions and when when not to. I want the pride of others saying, "Brittany can take a message to Garcia."
I am better for having read this book.
As I read the introduction (which is only a few pages itself) I wondered, why am I reading this and what is the point? Well, it gets to the point pretty quickly. It's a 10 minute read.
Very plain an simple, despite a few old timey phrases and a few words I had to look up, but even so I understood it well. It's about Honor, principal, values, and hard work. "Do your job" it exclaims.
It's not about Garcia but about Rowan the man who did his job (taking the letter to Garcia). The way I interpreted the story, it is not about being a YES SIR, WHAT EVER YOU SAY SIR, RIGHT AWAY SIR, I'LL KISS YOUR BOATS SIR! person. On the surface, yes it says 'ask no questions and do your work' but it is about hard workers--qualified works--who get no praise for what they have to deal with all day while working FOR and WITH incompetent slackers who wont or cant do anything and would find any means to escape duty.
It may not be a perfect book but much can be gained from it.
What I take from this book is essential. Applying it is essential.
I want to be Rowan. A person who is respected and deserves it. A person who knows how to accomplish something. To know when to ask questions and when when not to. I want the pride of others saying, "Brittany can take a message to Garcia."
I am better for having read this book.
February 10, 2017
I have read this many times. But this version was a bit longer, with an interesting foreword by the author.
This little story might be a good idea to distribute in businesses all over the world and it might raise the loyalty, responsibility and initiative of the workers.
This little story might be a good idea to distribute in businesses all over the world and it might raise the loyalty, responsibility and initiative of the workers.
December 3, 2008
it's so short that it would be criminal if every person didn't read it through
December 29, 2015
Excelente Libro
Te enseña que las cosas tenemos que hacerla en cualquier circunstancias y en cualquier situación. Excelente libro. Felicidades. Muy bueno.
Te enseña que las cosas tenemos que hacerla en cualquier circunstancias y en cualquier situación. Excelente libro. Felicidades. Muy bueno.
Read
August 7, 2016a very short pamphlet about an employer who is angry at his apathetic work force. He uses a story about a military man following orders as an excuse to berate workers. Unfortunately, he does not take into account that a person in the military is trained to follow orders without question. In his example, the President of the United States gives a message to a Lieutenant, ordering him to carry the message to a rebel leader in Cuba.
Hubbard thinks it shows good work ethic that the man did not question his orders, just did the job. Of course he didn't question his orders, it was the President of the United States, for heaven's sake! He wouldn't have questioned the orders from any superior officer, much less the Commander in Chief. Don't compare a military man to a regular employee. It's unfair. If you want someone who will follow orders and work at the top of their game, hire a vet. They always take pride in doing their duty.
Hubbard thinks it shows good work ethic that the man did not question his orders, just did the job. Of course he didn't question his orders, it was the President of the United States, for heaven's sake! He wouldn't have questioned the orders from any superior officer, much less the Commander in Chief. Don't compare a military man to a regular employee. It's unfair. If you want someone who will follow orders and work at the top of their game, hire a vet. They always take pride in doing their duty.
February 24, 2015
Should be required reading for job applicants
I see so many people with an "entitled" attitude for no apparent reason except that they exists. Entitled to wages beyond their skill level just because they can't live off of what their education and experience dictates yet they don't want put in the time and effort to bring themselves up. Employees who can't just do the job at hand but seem to spend more energy throbbing to wok. This should be required reading for job applicants - then test them on their understanding of it.
I see so many people with an "entitled" attitude for no apparent reason except that they exists. Entitled to wages beyond their skill level just because they can't live off of what their education and experience dictates yet they don't want put in the time and effort to bring themselves up. Employees who can't just do the job at hand but seem to spend more energy throbbing to wok. This should be required reading for job applicants - then test them on their understanding of it.
November 28, 2008
Somewhat inspirational, but really seems an awful lot like some form of corporate propaganda. Work hard, do good ect.. I work in a cubicle so I think that I am naturally susceptible to this.
March 25, 2015
Astonishly brilliant in its simplicity. A must read for its message.
October 16, 2019
My dad had me read this 30+ years ago as he was a Marine in WWII and his father had him read it as well, but I've since forgotten it so it's time to read it again.
November 28, 2013
This long essay, written by Elbert Hubbard, is a speech that needs to be consumed in its entirety; from the beginning to the end, the point that the author is trying to make builds on the previous paragraphs creating crescendo intensity and meaning for the readers.
The message in this essay is powerful: be a person of integrity, keep your word, and carry out the work that you are asked to do quickly, efficiently, and with integrity.
“My heart goes out to the man who does his work when the ‘boss’ is away, as well as when he is at home. And the man who, when given a letter for Garcia, quietly takes the missive, without asking any idiotic questions, and with no lurking intention of chucking it into the nearest sewer, or of doing aught else but deliver it , never gets ‘laid off’, nor has to go on strike for higher wages. Civilization is one long, anxious search for just such individuals. Anything such a man asks shall be granted. He is wanted in every city, town and village - in every office, shop, store and factory. The world cries out for such; he is needed and needed badly - the man who can ‘Carry a Message to Garcia.’”
The message in this essay is powerful: be a person of integrity, keep your word, and carry out the work that you are asked to do quickly, efficiently, and with integrity.
“My heart goes out to the man who does his work when the ‘boss’ is away, as well as when he is at home. And the man who, when given a letter for Garcia, quietly takes the missive, without asking any idiotic questions, and with no lurking intention of chucking it into the nearest sewer, or of doing aught else but deliver it , never gets ‘laid off’, nor has to go on strike for higher wages. Civilization is one long, anxious search for just such individuals. Anything such a man asks shall be granted. He is wanted in every city, town and village - in every office, shop, store and factory. The world cries out for such; he is needed and needed badly - the man who can ‘Carry a Message to Garcia.’”
August 29, 2009
I read this book briskly and then again. It is a very concise get to work book. The idiology it espouses is to do, not to say. By that I mean that you should be getting things done and making things happen, in stead of asking questions on what you should specifically be doing. The message that comes from this for leaders is to have your people read this book, if they whine, then tell them "message to Garcia" and that battle cry will help them focus back to getting the mission accomplished whatever it is. My experience with staff work is that people become efficient at finding other people to do work. Inevtiably you need to have someone who actually does work, or you run out of people who do things. This book is strongly chastising those people who don't work, and praising those who do. It was okay.
The downside, now that I have gone too long, is that it does not have any requirement for leadership. The focus of this book is to work hard, and if you are lucky you will have people who work hard, work for you. Other than that, you do absolutely nothing to guide or lead them, or even to bring them to a point where their work is useful, you just send them on their way to figure it out. This seems less efficient, but I guess if everyone wants to work 20 hours days, doing 10 hours of work, I guess this is the way to go...
The downside, now that I have gone too long, is that it does not have any requirement for leadership. The focus of this book is to work hard, and if you are lucky you will have people who work hard, work for you. Other than that, you do absolutely nothing to guide or lead them, or even to bring them to a point where their work is useful, you just send them on their way to figure it out. This seems less efficient, but I guess if everyone wants to work 20 hours days, doing 10 hours of work, I guess this is the way to go...
October 19, 2013
Not really a book although I read a version with several other essays included. I was inspired to read this after a recent visit and tour of the Roycroft campus in East Aurora, New York. Our guide talked about the essay and that it could be downloaded for free. I did this from Project Gutenberg.
Following a discussion of the Spanish-American War with his son Elbert Hubbard, leader of the Roycroft community, wrote and published a short essay about workers and how they do their jobs using an analogy to an event during the Spanish-American War. A man named Rowan was asked by an American commander to get a message to the leader of the rebels in Cuba. This man did not ask how or why, he simply took the message sneaked into Cuba, found the leader, Garcia , and delivered it.
The essay speaks to the issue that workers (and this was a century ago) will question any work request, question the employer and not necessarily complete the request. When published it "went viral" and was published and handed out all over the world in many languages. Russian soldiers were each given a copy, Chinese railroad workers had them and so on.
Worth the few minutes it takes to read and widely available on- line.
Following a discussion of the Spanish-American War with his son Elbert Hubbard, leader of the Roycroft community, wrote and published a short essay about workers and how they do their jobs using an analogy to an event during the Spanish-American War. A man named Rowan was asked by an American commander to get a message to the leader of the rebels in Cuba. This man did not ask how or why, he simply took the message sneaked into Cuba, found the leader, Garcia , and delivered it.
The essay speaks to the issue that workers (and this was a century ago) will question any work request, question the employer and not necessarily complete the request. When published it "went viral" and was published and handed out all over the world in many languages. Russian soldiers were each given a copy, Chinese railroad workers had them and so on.
Worth the few minutes it takes to read and widely available on- line.
June 25, 2014
Hubbard did a fantastic job of succinctly describing the two opposite views of work. Those who make it happen, and those who use excuses and questions to drag their feet to not work or try.
A great view into late 1800s and how people don't really change. There are those who want to work, and those who don't in every era.
It's so easy to make excuses for not succeeding, the easiest being shifting the blame onto others, usually their previous or current boss. Sometimes the boss is at fault, but oftentimes it's the person themselves. Laziness, Netflix, no goals, inability to focus, no work ethic and assumption that money just comes easier for other people all come together to ruin performance at work.
Success isn't always a huge amount of money, and your name plastered everywhere. It can be just being smart with money, taking all opportunities that come your way, making goals and listening to those you work for.
A message to Garcia should be seen as a jolt to it's reader. It causes the reader to look at themselves and see which category they fit in; those who work and succeed, and those who can't get out of their own way to move forward.
A great view into late 1800s and how people don't really change. There are those who want to work, and those who don't in every era.
It's so easy to make excuses for not succeeding, the easiest being shifting the blame onto others, usually their previous or current boss. Sometimes the boss is at fault, but oftentimes it's the person themselves. Laziness, Netflix, no goals, inability to focus, no work ethic and assumption that money just comes easier for other people all come together to ruin performance at work.
Success isn't always a huge amount of money, and your name plastered everywhere. It can be just being smart with money, taking all opportunities that come your way, making goals and listening to those you work for.
A message to Garcia should be seen as a jolt to it's reader. It causes the reader to look at themselves and see which category they fit in; those who work and succeed, and those who can't get out of their own way to move forward.
October 31, 2010
Years ago my father mentioned to me that people used to recite "A Message to Garcia", kind of like they'd recite the Gettysburg address (as shown in the musical "A Music Man"). I'd never heard of it. As part of my efforts to show Dad that the internet was useful for something, I googled it up, and read him the first line. And he said "Yup, that's it!" but then the conversation moved on. It wasn't until this week that I read the whole thing, even though it's quite short.
It's gist is "Just Do It": Don't quibble, don't question, don't whine, don't shirk. Take the task, figure it out, and do it. I can see why Dad liked it.
I have to say, though, that some of the specific advice is a little wonky. If my boss said to me "Please look in the encyclopedia and make a brief memorandum for me concerning the life of Correggio," then the chances are good I'd ask how to spell it, when the memo was due, and what project to charge my time to. All of which would apparently mark me as "incapable of independent action" and unwilling to "to cheerfully catch hold and lift". Seriously.
It's gist is "Just Do It": Don't quibble, don't question, don't whine, don't shirk. Take the task, figure it out, and do it. I can see why Dad liked it.
I have to say, though, that some of the specific advice is a little wonky. If my boss said to me "Please look in the encyclopedia and make a brief memorandum for me concerning the life of Correggio," then the chances are good I'd ask how to spell it, when the memo was due, and what project to charge my time to. All of which would apparently mark me as "incapable of independent action" and unwilling to "to cheerfully catch hold and lift". Seriously.
July 21, 2015
"El General García ya no existe. Pero hay muchos Garcías en el mundo. Qué desaliento no habrá sentido todo hombre de empresa, que necesita de la colaboración de muchos, que no se haya quedado alguna vez estupefacto ante la imbecilidad del común de los hombres, ante su abulia, ante su falta de energía para llevar a término la ejecución de un acto."
Este corto ensayo, es una punto de vista diferente al que tenemos de nuestra sociedad actual, pero, realmente solo es un discurso acerca de la forma de tener éxito en nuestro trabajo al simplemente hacer las cosas sin preguntar, sin dar rodeos.
A través de todo el escrito no tenemos una idea concisa de las condiciones y/o argumentos de Andrew Summers Rowan.
Estoy de acuerdo en algunas ideas que Hubbard nos hace ver, pero, de una manera moderada, y si tenemos en cuenta el continuo mensaje que nos da, en una sociedad como la actual, podría traer graves consecuencias; al no tomar en cuenta la capacidades de un individuo en su trabajo y compararla con alguien que realiza todo de una manera "completa" desde el punto de vista del escritor.
Este corto ensayo, es una punto de vista diferente al que tenemos de nuestra sociedad actual, pero, realmente solo es un discurso acerca de la forma de tener éxito en nuestro trabajo al simplemente hacer las cosas sin preguntar, sin dar rodeos.
A través de todo el escrito no tenemos una idea concisa de las condiciones y/o argumentos de Andrew Summers Rowan.
Estoy de acuerdo en algunas ideas que Hubbard nos hace ver, pero, de una manera moderada, y si tenemos en cuenta el continuo mensaje que nos da, en una sociedad como la actual, podría traer graves consecuencias; al no tomar en cuenta la capacidades de un individuo en su trabajo y compararla con alguien que realiza todo de una manera "completa" desde el punto de vista del escritor.
December 13, 2015
Dos cortos ensayos. El primero la famosa "Carta para Garc��a" que desconocía por completo. Este está entre teoría para la "autoayuda" y "caso de estudio" para escuelas de negocio. Sin olvidar el año de su publicación, aunque tiene elementos aplicables aún hoy, encuentro bastante cuestionable la obediencia sin cuestionarse el objetivo de lo que se te manda hacer (sea en el contexto que sea). Sobre el segundo ensayo, "O Pessimismo Nacional" de Manuel Laranjeira, da ganas de pegarse un tiro como hizo el autor, cuánto pesimismo, todo negativo, todo negro... de acuerdo que hay mucha miseria humana, pero algo positivo también hay que ser capaz de ver. Destacable, el hincapié que hace en la necesidad de educar a las sociedades.
September 13, 2013
:) Read this because my second Naval Academy son had a detailer who bombarded their company with this message this summer. It is a fun little story about not asking too many questions of your superiors but simply figuring it out once you are given a task to do. "Message to Garcia" is code for 'figure' it out for yourself. The story is about a soldier Rowan in the Cuban war, who needs to get a message to General Garcia on Cuba. Yet, the story is less about how he actually does so, and more an early 20th century moralizing op ed about how few enough people have the initiative to figure things out on their own. As a curiosity piece, it is priceless.
February 13, 2024
Писмо до Гарсия всъщност не е книга, а кратко есе отпреди 150 г. относно достойнствата на разсъдливия и изпълнителен работник/служител, който не задава излишни въпроси, а просто върши каквото трябва. Написано е яко.
Трябва да има едно такова и за достойнствата на разсъдливия шеф обаче. Забележете, че есето почва с това как съветникът казва "Има един човек, който ще свърши работата". Правилният човек, за правилната работа няма нужда да задава излишни въпроси, ама първо трябва да го намериш и наемеш...
Трябва да има едно такова и за достойнствата на разсъдливия шеф обаче. Забележете, че есето почва с това как съветникът казва "Има един човек, който ще свърши работата". Правилният човек, за правилната работа няма нужда да задава излишни въпроси, ама първо трябва да го намериш и наемеш...
June 17, 2022
Mais do que a explicação da famosa expressão "levar a carta a Garcia", este livro é uma reflexão que se pode aplicar a vários contextos e que recentra a importância de saber cumprir um dever.
February 20, 2020
This wonderful work is either loved or hated. A classic short treatise about getting the job done. The easiest way to describe this work is "just get it done" and quit whining. The author laments there are not enough men to get the job done and most need to have their hand held and this was written in 1899! It is about responsibility and self-reliance. This work is every bit as valid today as it was at the turn of the 20th-century. This should be required reading for all on the verge of adulthood and the adults that still do not understand it is up to them to be adults.
February 21, 2023
I mean I get the idea, especially in the military hierarchy it's important to follow up orders without too much hassle and unnecessary questions, unless of course there is an actual issue. But the idea that a person in authority looks so down at his average man and berates them instead of inspiring them is quite disgusting to read. I quite better like the idea of what a leader is as is shown by Pressfield through Leonidas and their last stand at Thermopylae.
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October 23, 2018Erbert Hubbard’ın 1899 yılında kaleme aldığı Garcia’ya Mektup, 40 milyon satıp 37 dile çevrilmiş. İncil ile birlikte en çok basılıp satan kitap ünvanını almış!
Yazarın ön sözünde (1913) belirttiğine göre yazar makaleyi bir kaç saatte yazmış ve tarihte hiçbir yazar hayattayken bu kadar baskı sayısını görmemiş. Anladığım kadarıyla kendisi de bu olaya şaşkın yani!
Hubbard’ın ölümü de enteresan; 7 Mayıs 1915 gününde, Amerika’nın I. Dünya Savaşı’na girmesindeki nedenlerden biri olan, Almanya’nın İngiliz yolcu gemisi Lusitania’yı batırması sonucu ölmüş.
Kitapta mektubun yanında iki kısa hikaye ve siyah beyaz fotoğraflar da mevcut.
100 yıl sonrasında edebi açıdan bir tat almadım ama Mektup, tarihi açıdan önemli bir belge, belli ki.
Yazarın ön sözünde (1913) belirttiğine göre yazar makaleyi bir kaç saatte yazmış ve tarihte hiçbir yazar hayattayken bu kadar baskı sayısını görmemiş. Anladığım kadarıyla kendisi de bu olaya şaşkın yani!
Hubbard’ın ölümü de enteresan; 7 Mayıs 1915 gününde, Amerika’nın I. Dünya Savaşı’na girmesindeki nedenlerden biri olan, Almanya’nın İngiliz yolcu gemisi Lusitania’yı batırması sonucu ölmüş.
Kitapta mektubun yanında iki kısa hikaye ve siyah beyaz fotoğraflar da mevcut.
100 yıl sonrasında edebi açıdan bir tat almadım ama Mektup, tarihi açıdan önemli bir belge, belli ki.
November 18, 2014
"I am an anarchist. Being an anarchist, I am also a socialist." I read Jesus was an Anarchist first and I thought it was brilliant. This book was not what I was expecting.
The first quote was from Jesus was an Anarchist but A Message to Garcia wasn't something I thought I would hear from a self-described socialist. It's a good message, really. The ideal worker is someone who does their work efficiently and without stupid questions. But on first read it comes off as capitalist propaganda, the type of philosophy a boss may point you to when they don't want to give you a higher wage. "Well, I have to supervise you, therefore you are the perfect worker." I'm looking at it again, though, and I noticed some of the last few lines "I have carried a dinner-pail and worked for day's wages, and I have also been an employer of labor, and I know there is something to be said on both sides. There is no excellence, per se, in poverty; rags are no recommendation; and all employers are not rapacious and high-handed, any more than all poor men are virtuous." This then leads into the last paragraph about the man who is a perfect worker, and doesn't have to worry about being laid off and can get good wages. This isn't about what it takes to be a good worker, this is just giving the other point of view. He admits that not all boss are fair and good people, but the ones who are look for workers that good people, which are just as hard to find as a fair and good boss.
If your boss recommended this to you, take Hubbard's advice and resign your position. Then take my advice and read Jesus was anarchist instead
The first quote was from Jesus was an Anarchist but A Message to Garcia wasn't something I thought I would hear from a self-described socialist. It's a good message, really. The ideal worker is someone who does their work efficiently and without stupid questions. But on first read it comes off as capitalist propaganda, the type of philosophy a boss may point you to when they don't want to give you a higher wage. "Well, I have to supervise you, therefore you are the perfect worker." I'm looking at it again, though, and I noticed some of the last few lines "I have carried a dinner-pail and worked for day's wages, and I have also been an employer of labor, and I know there is something to be said on both sides. There is no excellence, per se, in poverty; rags are no recommendation; and all employers are not rapacious and high-handed, any more than all poor men are virtuous." This then leads into the last paragraph about the man who is a perfect worker, and doesn't have to worry about being laid off and can get good wages. This isn't about what it takes to be a good worker, this is just giving the other point of view. He admits that not all boss are fair and good people, but the ones who are look for workers that good people, which are just as hard to find as a fair and good boss.
If your boss recommended this to you, take Hubbard's advice and resign your position. Then take my advice and read Jesus was anarchist instead
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