The quote highlights the complex motivations behind why young men go to war. Some may do so out of obligation, while others choose this path willingly, often shaped by societal expectations that label bravery as engaging in battle and shame in retreating from it. It reflects a long-standing tradition where acts of violence are perceived as honorable, while the desire for peace is misinterpreted as weakness.

This perspective reveals how societal values can distort individual choices, pressuring young men to conform to the belief that valor lies in warfare. Such narratives underscore the tragic consequences of conflating sacrifice in war with true courage, raising questions about the meaning of honor and the true cost of conflict throughout history.