Every man Quote by Erich Maria Remarque
““The smoke of pipes and cigars fills the room. Desires, thoughts, ambitions in seething confusion. God only knows what will come of them. A hundred young soldiers, eighteen lieutenants, thirty warrant officers and noncoms., all sitting here, wanting to start to live. Any man of them could take a company under fire across No Man’s Land with hardly a casualty. There is not one who would hesitate for an instant to do the right thing when the cry “They are coming!” was yelled down into his dugout. Every man has been tempered through countless, pitiless days; every man is a complete soldier, no more and no less. But for peace? Are we suitable? Are we fit now for anything but soldiering?””
About This Quote
Source Novel: All Quiet on the Western Front, 1929 (paraphrased passage)
Soldiers confront the chaos of desire and duty, yet remain ready to act without hesitation, questioning whether peace suits their hardened selves.
In simple terms: Soldiers are ready for war, doubt peace.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the conflict between duty and peace.
Themes
war
peace
identity
morality
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- military training
- psychological counseling
- peace negotiations
Key Concepts
soldier’s psyche
combat readiness
post‑war adjustment
Questions to Reflect On
- Can soldiers find purpose beyond combat?
- What supports their transition to peace?
A Different Perspective
Even seasoned soldiers may struggle with civilian life after war.
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