Old Saws and New Meanings, by Bairnsfather
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Old Saws and New Meanings, by Bairnsfather
Old Saws and New Meanings
There is certainly a lot of truth in that Napoleonic maxim, " An army moves on its stomach"
A cartoon by Captain Bruce Bairnsfather, in The Bystander
1916
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14185187
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Bairnsfather Bruce Bystander Marches Maxim Moves Napoleonic Saws Stomach Truth Meanings
Old Saws and New Meanings
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a classic and humorous cartoon created by Captain Bruce Bairnsfather in 1916, published in The Bystander. This timeless piece, which can be found in the extensive collection of Mary Evans Prints Online, offers a poignant commentary on the realities of war, particularly during the First World War. The cartoon depicts a group of soldiers huddled around a makeshift table, their faces etched with exhaustion and hunger. A soldier at the head of the table, with a map spread out before him, declares, "There's no time to lose, lads, we must push on." An older soldier, leaning on his crutches, replies, "An army moves on its stomach, sir," to which the younger soldiers nod in agreement. This exchange references the Napoleonic maxim, "An army moves on its stomach," emphasizing the importance of food in sustaining the military. However, Bairnsfather's cartoon adds a new layer of meaning to this old saw. In the context of the First World War, the soldiers' hunger and exhaustion are not just metaphorical; they are a stark reality. The cartoon serves as a poignant reminder of the hardships endured by soldiers during this time and the importance of providing them with the necessary resources to maintain their strength and morale. Bairnsfather's "Old Saws and New Meanings" is a powerful and enduring image that continues to resonate with audiences today. It offers a glimpse into the past, reminding us of the challenges faced by soldiers during wartime and the enduring truths that emerge from their experiences.
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