I think one of the great disasters (in military history) is the way that the Second World War has become the defining reference point for every crisis and every conflict.

To begin impatiently is the worst mistake a writer can make

If you smash a city when you're trying to capture it, you actually end up providing the perfect terrain for the defenders while blocking the access for your own armoured vehicles.

I just write the sort of book that I would enjoy reading myself, a book that is both scholarly and recreates the experience of people at that time.

Few things reveal more about political leaders and their systems than the manner of their downfall.

I believe passionately in preemptive pessimism, especially before a book comes out. I expect the worst both from reviewers and sales, and then, with any luck, I may be proved wrong.

I think it's outrageous if a historian has a 'leading thought' because it means they will select their material according to their thesis

I joined the Army in 1965 and served with the 11th Hussars, which I loved. The regiment was so relaxed - a salute was more like a friendly wave.

The duty of a historian is simply to understand and then convey that understanding, no more than that.

I feel slightly uneasy at the way historians are consulted as if history is going to repeat itself. It never does.

The British bombing of Caen beginning on D-Day in particular was stupid, counter-productive and above all very close to a war crime.

Life doesn´t come with any guarantees. You have to risk it to get the biscuit." - The Alchemist, Paulo Cohelo -

love is a drop of bloodin apool of tears

We will be fair, just, and compassionate to all, but our greatest compassion must be for our American citizens.

Gods' payment is the best payment.

The real meaning of detached love is to let others exist without forcing our will upon them. That is spiritual love.

People say, 'Oh, God, how devastating to go through a divorce.' Did I wish for this to happen to my family? No. But everyone is healthy; we're moving on with our lives.

Don't worry about finding your soul mate. Find yourself.

Unless you're really going to have a serious relationship, don't bring your kids into it. Don't show your child that people come and go.

An old man with something of the youth in him, may feel young in mind and heart only.

There aren't four seasons a year in the mountains; there are forty seasons a day up there in those divine altitudes!