Ship of Magic (Liveship Traders, #1)

by Robin Hobb

There was always something to be learned from any experience, no matter how horrendous. As long as a man kept sight of that, his spirit could prevail against anything. It was only when one gave in and believed the universe to be nothing more than a chaotic collection of unfortunate or cruel events that one’s spirit could be crushed.

I do not keep him in ignorance, Malta. His ignorance is a fortress he has built himself and defended savagely.”