On the record
The thing you fought for is not the thing which you recover, but depreciated, sunk, wasted, and consumed in the contest.
Said by
Edmund Burke
Source
gutenberg.orgEdmund Burke: “The thing you fought for is not the thing which you recover, but depreciated, sunk, wasted, and consumed in the contest.”
Editor's note · Context
Burke reflects on the losses incurred in conflict, suggesting that what is fought for is often diminished in the process.
Share
More from Edmund Burke
Jan 1, 1790
Not being illuminated with the light of which the gentlemen of France tell us they have got so abundant a share, they acted under a strong impression of the ignorance and fallibility of mankind.
Jan 1, 1790
Our people will find employment enough for a truly patriotic, free, and independent spirit, in guarding what they possess from violation.
Jan 1, 1790
Whatever they are, I wish my countrymen rather to recommend to our neighbors the example of the British Constitution than to take models from them for the improvement of our own.
Jan 1, 1790
The improvements of the National Assembly are superficial, their errors fundamental.
Other voices in this conversation
