I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive; and the other would accept war rather than let it perish. And the war came.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the tragic paradox of conflict where opposing sides prioritize their beliefs, ultimately leading to war.
Abraham Lincoln's quote captures the painful reality that while both sides in a conflict may oppose war, their differing principles can push them toward it. It highlights the idea that the desire to uphold national integrity or identity can sometimes outweigh the wish for peace, resulting in inevitable conflict. The quote serves as a reminder of how deeply-held convictions can lead to disastrous consequences, illustrating the human tendency to escalate disputes rather than seek resolution.
Themes
WarConflictSurvivalPeacePrinciples
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the reasons for conflict in history, this quote can illustrate the paradox of war.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
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And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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