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Defeat Quote by Ernest Hemingway

“Once we have a war there is only one thing to do. It must be won. For defeat brings worse things than any that can ever happen in war.” quote by Ernest Hemingway
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“Once we have a war there is only one thing to do. It must be won. For defeat brings worse things than any that can ever happen in war.”

Ernest Hemingway

About This Quote

Source Novel: A Farewell to Arms, 1929

War demands decisive victory; defeat leads to greater suffering than the war itself.

In simple terms: War must be won to avoid worse outcomes.

Key Takeaway

Seek decisive action in conflict.

Themes

war victory consequences

Mood

determined serious

Type

strategic motivational

When to use this quote

  • military campaigns
  • political negotiations
  • personal crises

Key Concepts

strategic decision risk assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is total victory always attainable?
  • What are the costs of refusing to fight?
A Different Perspective

Victory may be impossible, leading to prolonged suffering.

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