Meaning: The quote "This is the devilish thing about foreign affairs: they are foreign and will not always conform to our whim" by James Reston, a renowned journalist, succinctly captures the complexity and unpredictability of international relations. In this quote, Reston reflects on the challenging nature of dealing with foreign affairs and highlights the inherent difficulty in exerting control or influence over events and developments in the international arena.

Foreign affairs encompass a wide range of diplomatic, political, economic, and security-related interactions between nations. These interactions are shaped by the interests, policies, and actions of multiple actors, including governments, international organizations, non-state actors, and multinational corporations. The dynamic and often turbulent nature of global politics means that foreign affairs are inherently unpredictable and resistant to unilateral influence or manipulation.

Reston's use of the term "devilish" conveys the frustrating and vexing nature of foreign affairs. It suggests that dealing with international issues can be maddening and confounding, as they often defy simple solutions or straightforward strategies. The adjective "foreign" emphasizes the inherent otherness of international relations, highlighting the fact that the interests and priorities of other nations may not align with our own.

The phrase "will not always conform to our whim" underscores the idea that foreign affairs cannot be easily controlled or manipulated to suit the desires or preferences of a single nation or actor. It acknowledges the reality that other countries have their own agendas and objectives, which may run counter to those of the United States or any other nation. This lack of conformity to "our whim" serves as a reminder that the pursuit of national interests on the global stage requires a nuanced understanding of the complexities and competing interests at play.

James Reston's career as a journalist and commentator on foreign affairs spanned several decades, during which he reported on and analyzed major international events, including wars, diplomatic negotiations, and geopolitical shifts. His keen observations and insights into the challenges of navigating foreign affairs have made his writings and quotes, such as the one under discussion, enduringly relevant and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, James Reston's quote encapsulates the intricate and often frustrating nature of foreign affairs, emphasizing their inherent foreignness and resistance to unilateral control. It serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in navigating the global stage, where multiple actors and interests intersect, often defying simple solutions or easy manipulation. Reston's words continue to resonate as a poignant reflection on the enduring realities of international relations and the need for thoughtful and nuanced engagement with the complexities of foreign affairs.