The quote reflects on the irony of how World War I was referred to as the 'Great War' and 'the war to end all wars.' It emphasizes the expectation that such a devastating conflict would deter future wars, highlighting a sense of pessimism about humanity's ability to learn from its mistakes. The speaker’s disbelief in the term 'great' reveals a deep disillusionment with the realities of war and the underlying pain it caused.
The statement underscores the harsh truth that despite the hope for peace following such a catastrophic event, history has shown us that wars have continued. It serves as a critique of humanity's failure to heed the lessons of the past, illustrating how the narrative of hope is often shattered by the ongoing cycles of conflict. This perspective invites a reflection on the consequences of war and the fragility of peace.