Saying Quote by Sebastian Barry
““We’re strange people, soldiers stuck out in wars. We ain’t saying no laws in Washington. We ain’t walking on yon great lawns. Storms kill us, and battles, and the earth closes over and no one need say a word and I don’t believe we mind. Happy to breathe because we seen terror and horror and then for a while they ain’t in dominion.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry, 2008
The speaker reflects on the absurdity of war, the loss of normalcy, and a fleeting sense of relief after terror.
In simple terms: War’s absurdity, brief relief.
Key Takeaway
Find moments of peace amid chaos.
Themes
war
absurdity
humanity
Mood
somber
hopeful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- combat zones
- post‑war adjustment
- mental health support
- peacebuilding
Key Concepts
psychological impact
combat experience
survival
disillusionment
Questions to Reflect On
- What gives soldiers hope during conflict?
- How can societies support veterans after trauma?
A Different Perspective
War’s trauma can overwhelm any brief respite.
