Of course, if there should be war, it wouldn't last long…
“Of course, if there should be war, it wouldn't last long - not in the twentieth century; and no one wants it. There would be, perhaps, a few skirmishes on the frontiers, and then everything would be arranged diplomatically.”
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 seen as inevitable but short, with hopes that diplomacy will prevent large‑scale conflict.
In simple terms: War is expected but brief, with diplomacy preferred.
Seek diplomatic solutions before conflict.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- international relations
- military planning
- public opinion
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can diplomacy truly prevent war?
- What factors make wars inevitable?
Diplomacy may fail if underlying tensions are ignored.