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Is it not tragic, for example, that while in the last…

“Is it not tragic, for example, that while in the last World War almost everyone believed it was the war to end all wars and wanted to make it so, now in this Second World War almost no writer that I have read dares even suggest that this is the war to end all wars, or act on that belief? We have…” quote by Lin Yutang
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“Is it not tragic, for example, that while in the last World War almost everyone believed it was the war to end all wars and wanted to make it so, now in this Second World War almost no writer that I have read dares even suggest that this is the war to end all wars, or act on that belief? We have lost the courage to hope.”

Lin Yutang

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The author laments loss of hopeful belief that wars could end all conflict, noting modern writers avoid such optimism.

In simple terms: Hopeful belief in ending wars has faded; writers now lack courage.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate hope and courage in confronting conflict.

Themes

war hope courage

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • peace activism
  • writing
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

historical perspective literary trends

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can hope survive without naiveté?
  • What role should writers play in shaping war narratives?
A Different Perspective

Optimism may overlook complex realities of war.

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