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When the tumult of war shall cease, and the tempest of…

“When the tumult of war shall cease, and the tempest of present passions be succeeded by calm reflection, or when those, who, surviving its fury, shall inherit from you a legacy of debts and misfortunes, when the yearly revenue scarcely be able to discharge the interest of the one, and no possible…” quote by Thomas Paine
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““When the tumult of war shall cease, and the tempest of present passions be succeeded by calm reflection, or when those, who, surviving its fury, shall inherit from you a legacy of debts and misfortunes, when the yearly revenue scarcely be able to discharge the interest of the one, and no possible remedy be left for the other, ideas far different from the present will arise, and embitter the remembrance of former follies. A mind disarmed of its rage feels no pleasure in contemplating a frantic quarrel. Sickness of thought, the sure consequence of conduct like yours, leaves no ability for enjoyment, no relish for resentment; and though, like a man in a fit, you feel not the injury of the struggle, nor distinguish between strength and disease, the weakness will nevertheless be proportioned to the violence, and the sense of pain increase with the recovery.””

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

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

War’s end brings reflection, debt, and lingering hardships; peace reveals deeper suffering and the mind’s loss of pleasure in conflict.

In simple terms: After war, peace brings debt and lingering pain.

Key Takeaway

Seek lasting peace and mental clarity.

Themes

war peace economics psychology

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • national policy
  • personal coping strategies
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

post‑war recovery financial strain mental health

Questions to Reflect On

  • What lasting impacts does war have on societies?
  • How can individuals find peace after conflict?
A Different Perspective

Peace does not automatically bring relief; underlying issues persist.

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