Meaning: Herbert Read, a poet, art critic, and anarchist, expressed his skepticism about the value of discipline in the context of war in the quote, "My own early experiences in war led me to suspect the value of discipline, even in that sphere where it is so often regarded as the first essential for success." This statement reflects Read's critical perspective on the traditional notions of discipline and its role in achieving success, especially within the framework of warfare and military operations.

Read's viewpoint can be understood within the broader context of his anarchist beliefs and his experiences as a soldier during World War I. As an anarchist, Read was inherently skeptical of systems of authority, control, and regimentation, which are often embodied in the concept of discipline. His experiences in the war likely exposed him to the harsh realities of military discipline and its impact on individuals and society, leading him to question its true value and efficacy.

In the traditional sense, discipline is often seen as a fundamental component of military training and operations. It is considered essential for maintaining order, cohesion, and effectiveness within the armed forces. Soldiers are expected to adhere to strict codes of conduct, follow orders without question, and display unwavering obedience to authority. This rigid adherence to discipline is believed to be crucial for achieving victory in the battlefield and ensuring the success of military campaigns.

However, Read's skepticism challenges this conventional wisdom. His statement suggests that his personal experiences during war revealed limitations or drawbacks to the strict enforcement of discipline. It implies that the overemphasis on discipline may not always lead to the desired outcomes and may even have negative consequences. Read's perspective invites critical reflection on the potential downsides of an overly disciplined approach to warfare, raising important questions about the true nature of success in military endeavors.

Moreover, Read's skepticism about the value of discipline in war can be interpreted as a broader critique of authoritarian and hierarchical systems. As an anarchist, he advocated for individual freedom, creativity, and non-conformity, values that are often at odds with the rigid structures imposed by discipline. His war experiences likely reinforced his belief in the importance of personal autonomy and the potential dangers of subsuming individual agency to the demands of discipline.

It is important to note that Read's perspective does not necessarily dismiss the need for organization, coordination, and strategic planning in military operations. Instead, it challenges the unquestioned glorification of discipline as the sole determinant of success in war. By expressing his suspicion of its value, Read encourages a more nuanced and critical evaluation of the role of discipline in the context of conflict and warfare.

In conclusion, Herbert Read's quote reflects his skepticism about the unquestioned value of discipline in the context of war, stemming from his personal experiences as a soldier and his anarchist beliefs. His critical perspective invites a reexamination of the traditional assumptions about the role of discipline in achieving success in military endeavors, prompting a deeper consideration of the complexities and potential limitations of rigidly enforced authority and control.