[...] to introduce into the philosophy of war itself a principle of moderation would be an absurdity

Everything in war is very simple, but the simplest thing is difficult. The difficulties accumulate and end by producing a kind of friction that is inconceivable unless one has experienced war. ... Countless minor incidents - the kind you can never really foresee - combine to lower the general level of performance, so that one always falls short of the intended goal.

A certain grasp of military affairs is vital for those in charge of general policy.

In war everything is simple, but it's the simple things that are difficult.

Strength of character does not consist solely in having powerful feelings, but in maintaining one's balance in spite of them.

Self-reliance is the best defence against the pressures of the moment.

Desperate affairs require desperate remedies.