In "The Proud Tower: A Portrait of the World Before the War, 1890-1914," Barbara W. Tuchman explores the political and social landscape of Europe leading up to World War I. She vividly illustrates how the tensions of the time heightened emotions and perceptions, transforming the world into a place fraught with danger and conflict. The quote "Everything took on the color of blood" encapsulates the pervasive sense of foreboding and the violence that was about to unfold.

Tuchman's work delves into the complexities of the era, highlighting the intertwining of nationalism, class struggles, and militarism. These factors collectively contributed to an environment where conflict was inevitable, and the metaphor of blood serves to emphasize the inevitable tragedy that was looming over Europe. The book serves as a reminder of how history can shape the human experience and the dark colors that can overshadow periods of growth and change.