You are 'the best of cut-throats:'--do not start; The…
““You are 'the best of cut-throats:'--do not start; The phrase is Shakespeare's, and not misapplied:-- War's a brain-spattering, windpipe-slitting art, Unless her cause by Right be sanctified. If you have acted once a generous part, The World, not the World's masters, will decide, And I shall be delighted to learn who, Save you and yours, have gained by Waterloo? I am no flatterer--you've supped full of flattery: They say you like it too--'tis no great wonder: He whose whole life has been assault and battery, At last may get a little tired of thunder; And swallowing eulogy much more than satire, he May like being praised for every lucky blunder; Called 'Saviour of the Nations'--not yet saved, And Europe's Liberator--still enslaved. I've done. Now go and dine from off the plate Presented by the Prince of the Brazils, And send the sentinel before your gate A slice or two from your luxurious meals: He fought, but has not fed so well of late...””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
War is glorified as heroic, yet it brings suffering and moral ambiguity, questioning the true nature of heroism.
In simple terms: War is praised but causes pain and doubt.
Key Takeaway
Question glorified narratives.
Themes
war
heroism
morality
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
controversial
When to use this quote
- military service
- political leadership
- public discourse
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
ethical paradox
political critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a true hero?
- How does propaganda shape our view of war?
A Different Perspective
Idealizing war can ignore victims' suffering.