I am always conflicted by the Anzac Day remembrances and the call to honour the “glorious dead”. Nothing about war is glorious, regardless of who wins; and if the dead could speak, their first utterance would be to ask why.
No war is “good” or “just” or “necessary” from the standpoint of the aggressor, though those assaulted may have excuse to apply such tags in defending themselves.
Unfortunately since the mass of humanity seems inclined to take up arms on the flimsiest pretext, the warlords and demigods of hatred find war all too easy to pursue. Continue reading