Gentleness doesn't get work done unless you happen to be a hen
Hear the sharp and spirited words of Coco Chanel, who declared: “Gentleness doesn’t get work done unless you happen to be a hen laying eggs.” In this playful yet piercing remark lies the wisdom of labor and strength—that while gentleness has its beauty, it is not always the force that brings great tasks to completion. To create, to build, to endure, one must often carry not softness, but determination, courage, and resolve.
Chanel begins with irony. The hen laying eggs produces without struggle, her gentleness sufficient for her task. But the works of human hands—whether art, invention, or empire—demand more than quiet waiting. They require sweat, endurance, and at times a fierceness that presses through resistance. To rely only on gentleness is to remain idle, while the world calls for bold action.
The heart of this wisdom reflects Chanel’s own life, a woman who rose from obscurity to revolutionize fashion. She knew by experience that great change and accomplishment are not birthed by passivity, but by courage. Work is not given; it must be seized, often in the face of opposition. Gentleness may comfort, but it rarely conquers.
Yet her words are not a rejection of gentleness, but a reminder of its limits. Gentleness has its place in love, in friendship, in healing—but when faced with the challenges of creation, survival, and transformation, it must be joined with strength. To labor without vigor is to dream without action. Chanel’s wit teaches that greatness requires force of will.
Thus let this lesson endure: be gentle where gentleness brings life, but be strong where only strength can prevail. Do not mistake softness for power, nor mistake determination for cruelty. For in balance lies wisdom, but in action lies accomplishment. Chanel’s words, clothed in humor, shine forth as a timeless call to rise, to strive, and to finish the work that only courage can complete.
DNNhu Quynh 6/4 Do Nguyen
Coco Chanel’s quote is thought-provoking, but it seems to suggest that gentleness is somehow ineffective. I think it’s all about context. Sometimes, gentleness is exactly what’s needed—especially in delicate situations where force or aggression would be counterproductive. Could it be that gentleness and determination are not mutually exclusive, and that the best results come from a balance of both? I think it’s more about how we apply gentleness rather than assuming it doesn’t get work done.
HBPhan Tran Hoai Bang
I find this quote a bit provocative, but there’s some truth in it. In certain situations, gentleness may not be enough to get things done—especially in high-pressure environments. But could there be times when gentleness is a strength? It can diffuse tension, create better relationships, and ultimately lead to better collaboration. Maybe gentleness doesn’t always get work done immediately, but it can lay the foundation for more sustainable outcomes.
HBLe Huy Bảo
Coco Chanel’s quote brings up an interesting idea: that gentleness alone might not drive productivity. But isn’t gentleness also an essential part of leadership and collaboration? While some might argue that being assertive is necessary for getting work done, I think gentleness helps foster a positive and supportive environment. Can the most effective leaders find a balance between gentleness and getting things done efficiently?
YTYen Thanh
I understand what Coco Chanel is saying, but I think gentleness can be powerful in its own way. Does gentleness really mean inefficiency, or does it just require patience and a different approach? While gentleness may not always seem like the quickest way to get things done, perhaps it helps build trust and cooperation, which can lead to long-term results. Is there a way to blend gentleness with action?
Nnguyenngotrongphuc
This quote by Coco Chanel feels a bit harsh but also true in a certain sense. Sometimes, we see gentleness as a virtue, but can it get the job done in a world that demands efficiency and results? I wonder if gentleness is enough in the face of real challenges, or if there are times when we need to be more assertive or forceful to get things accomplished.