The quote from Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian, or the Evening Redness in the West" reflects the pervasive and enduring nature of war throughout human history. It suggests that conflict is an innate part of existence, predating humanity itself. War is portrayed as a fundamental aspect of life that has always been present, waiting for the emergence of humanity to engage with it. This idea highlights the inevitability of violence and struggle as core components of the human experience.

Moreover, McCarthy's characterization of war as a trade emphasizes its transactional nature. The phrase "ultimate practitioner" indicates that some individuals are drawn to war as a vocation, suggesting a fatalism or inevitability surrounding their participation in conflict. This viewpoint may lead to deeper reflections on human nature and our attraction to power struggles, questioning whether war is an intrinsic element of civilization or a force that shapes it. The quote encapsulates the grim reality that war has been a constant companion throughout human history, influencing our development and interactions.