Skip to content

Body Quote by William Faulkner

“War is an episode, a crisis, a fever the purpose of which is to rid the body of fever. So the purpose of a war is to end the war.” quote by William Faulkner
Download Open image
“War is an episode, a crisis, a fever the purpose of which is to rid the body of fever. So the purpose of a war is to end the war.”

William Faulkner

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Reivers, 1922 (paraphrased)

War serves as a societal fever, a painful process meant to purge deeper issues, ultimately aiming to restore health.

In simple terms: War is a painful cleansing.

Key Takeaway

Recognize war’s destructive purpose.

Themes

conflict society healing

Mood

somber critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political analysis
  • historical study
  • peace activism

Key Concepts

systemic stress collective trauma resolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • What alternatives can address societal fevers?
  • Can conflict ever be truly restorative?
A Different Perspective

War often fails to achieve true healing.

3.0 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by William Faulkner

Explore all 673 William Faulkner quotes

More Body quotes

Browse all 20,814 Body quotes