In Barbara W. Tuchman's "The Guns of August," the author delves into the mindset of military leaders at the onset of World War I. One particular moment illustrates Kitchener's apprehension as he contemplates the journey from Kitchener to London. This internal struggle highlights the weight of the decisions he faced during a pivotal time in history.

Tuchman captures the tension and uncertainty of leadership amidst the chaos of war. Kitchener's inability to summon the courage to act underscores the profound impact of psychological factors on military strategy, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the complexities of wartime decision-making.