The article reflects on how wars are often viewed retrospectively as inevitable disasters, suggesting we ignore the possibilities of peaceful resolutions. It critiques the romanticization of war, particularly the Civil War, positioning it as a tragic necessity rather than a result of failed negotiations. The text discusses historical figures such as John F. Kennedy, who exemplified caution during crises, contrasting them with wartime leaders who are mistakenly celebrated for their aggressive decisions. The Civil War's legacy is scrutinized, questioning whether it could have been avoided through compromise.
"We rarely honor those who turn back at the brink. John F. Kennedy's compromise during the Cuban missile crisis is an exception..."
"The habit of describing war with metaphors drawn from natural disasters is as old as war writing. Homer himself uses natural metaphors to ennoble violent human actors..."
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