"I believe that the purpose for which I and my fellow soldiers entered upon this war should have been so clearly stated as to have made it impossible to change them, and that, had this been done, the objects which actuated us would now be attainable by negotiation"

Siegfried Sassoon, a soldier and poet who served during World War I, is understood for his poignant reviews of the war. This quote is a reflection of his disillusionment with the war and its management by politicians. Sassoon argues that the factors for entering the war ought to have been clearly and transparently stated from the start. By doing so, it would have been harder for those in power to modify or obscure the original objectives as the conflict advanced. This clarity would have potentially permitted the possibility of achieving these objectives through settlement rather than prolonged battle.

The quote suggests that had the war intends been clear and immutable, the inspirations driving the soldiers, including himself, would be most likely to reach a resolution through diplomatic ways rather than battleground victories. Sassoon's belief captures a sense of aggravation and betrayal felt by many soldiers who found themselves in an extended dispute with shifting functions and no clear end in sight.

Sassoon's declaration is a critique of wartime politics, highlighting a viewed gap in between the soldiers' experiences on the cutting edge and the political maneuvers taking place far from the trenches. This disconnect often leads to cynicism amongst soldiers, as the reason for their sacrifice ends up being muddled.

In addition, the quote underscores a yearning for reliable interaction and transparency, suggesting that a clearly specified mission might help with negotiations and peace. Sassoon reflects a wider war-weariness among soldiers who yearn for resolution and are disillusioned by the seeming futility and ever-changing goals of the war.

In essence, Sassoon calls for accountability and honesty from those commanding the war efforts, advocating for the initial reasons of the war to assist actions consistently, thereby possibly preventing unneeded violence and accomplishing peace through diplomatic channels.