28. Remove the ladder when the enemy has ascended
This phrase means to lure the enemy out and then trapping them in order to cut off their escape route. Lure the enemy out with a bait to trap them in an unfavorable position. The trapped place will be treacherous and full of dangers for the enemy. Now the enemy has to deal with unfavorable positioning and your force after you lure and seal them in.
By cutting off your enemy’s reinforcement, escape route and communication while putting fear and unfavorable positioning to the enemy will they be easily defeated. Fighting where the enemy is at its low while you are at your highest creates the perfect opportunity to win with ease. This stratagem lures and seals your enemy’s fate with the least of effort. That is what it means to “remove the ladder when the enemy has ascended“.
5 Comments
In Lord of the Rings they kick the ladders while down when the orc is just at the top, that way is cool because then you don’t have to mess with the dude on your turf. They just fly through the air!
One needs to be careful in applying this stratagem. If you have encircled and capture the enemy, consider the type of person he is.
For some, their leader might rally their men to fight to the very last breath due to the desperateness of the situation.
For others, they might just capitulate.
One must have the wisdom in discerning the character of their leader.
Michelle- I forgot about that part, but I like the “You shall not pass” part which Gandalf defeated the Balrog. Substitute the ladder with narrow bridge
Avatar- That is true. That is why positioning of the trapped place must be very advantageous so the enemy’s leader will submit or perish without a fight.
for a second there i thought you started to give out battle tactics ^_^
Kirk- Hehe
is a battle tactic and also a life & business tactic.