Meaning: This quote by journalist Garet Garrett is a thought-provoking reflection on the nature of power and leadership, particularly in the context of revolution and political upheaval. The quote suggests that even influential figures like Lenin, who played a pivotal role in the Russian Revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union, may not have had a clear plan for what to do once they achieved power.

Vladimir Lenin, the leader of the Bolshevik Party and a key figure in the October Revolution of 1917, was indeed a significant theorist and strategist in the realm of revolutionary politics. His writings and speeches, including works such as "What Is to Be Done?" and "State and Revolution," outlined his vision for a socialist society and provided a theoretical framework for the overthrow of the existing order. However, Garrett's quote implies that despite Lenin's intellectual prowess and strategic acumen in seizing power, he may have lacked a concrete plan for governance and the establishment of a new social and political order.

Lenin's focus on the revolutionary struggle against the bourgeois state and the capitalist system, as well as his emphasis on the need for a vanguard party to lead the proletariat to victory, may have overshadowed detailed planning for the practical realities of governance and administration. The quote suggests that the pursuit of power and the overthrow of the old order may have been prioritized over the challenges of building a new society and effectively managing the responsibilities of leadership.

In interpreting this quote, it is important to consider the broader historical and ideological context in which Lenin operated. The Russian Revolution was a tumultuous and chaotic period, characterized by intense political upheaval, civil war, and the collapse of the old imperial regime. In such a volatile and unpredictable environment, the immediate goal of seizing power and consolidating control over the state may have overshadowed long-term planning and strategic foresight.

Furthermore, the quote raises questions about the nature of leadership and the responsibilities of those who seek to effect radical change. It suggests that the pursuit of power and the success of revolutionary movements may not always be accompanied by a clear vision for the future or a comprehensive plan for governance. This can lead to uncertainty, instability, and the potential for unintended consequences once power is attained.

Garet Garrett, the author of the quote, was a prominent journalist and commentator on political and economic affairs during the early to mid-20th century. His perspective may have been influenced by the tumultuous events of his time, including the rise of totalitarian regimes and the challenges of post-revolutionary reconstruction. Garrett's observation about Lenin reflects a broader concern with the limitations of revolutionary ideology and the complexities of transitioning from opposition to governance.

In conclusion, Garet Garrett's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the dynamics of power, leadership, and revolutionary change. It prompts us to consider the challenges and uncertainties that accompany the pursuit of political transformation, particularly in the aftermath of seizing power. The quote serves as a reminder that even the most influential and strategic leaders may face uncertainty and ambiguity when confronting the practical realities of governance and the establishment of a new social order.