Farewell the plumed troop, and the big wars That make…
“Farewell the plumed troop, and the big wars That make ambition virtue! O, farewell! Farewell the neighing steed and the shrill trump, The spirit-stirring drum, th' ear-piercing fife, The royal banner, and all quality, Pride, pomp, and circumstance of glorious war!”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker bids farewell to the pomp and glory of war, recognizing its emptiness.
In simple terms: Saying goodbye to war's flashy trappings.
Key Takeaway
Consider the true cost of ambition.
Themes
war
glory
ambition
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
poetic
historical
When to use this quote
- military service
- political leadership
- peace activism
Key Concepts
military history
human cost
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “virtue” mean without war?
- Can peace be as stirring as battle?
A Different Perspective
War may still be seen as noble by some.