It is madness to attempt to hold. In the first place the…
“It is madness to attempt to hold. In the first place the troops cannot do it and in the second place if they do not retreat they will be destroyed. I repeat that this order be rescinded or that you find someone else.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Attempting to hold a position when retreat is impossible leads to destruction; command should be flexible.
In simple terms: Holding a losing position is disastrous.
Allow retreat to avoid loss.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- battlefield
- enemy advance
- logistics
- morale
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When should a leader change a plan?
- How to balance resolve and adaptability?
Rigid orders can cause unnecessary casualties.