Meaning: The quote by Martha Gellhorn, a renowned journalist, reflects the aftermath of guerrilla fighting in a specific context, likely during the Spanish Civil War. The quote encapsulates the plight of the Spanish guerrilla fighters who, after the cessation of hostilities, found themselves in a state of displacement and disconnection. Gellhorn's poignant words shed light on the profound impact of war on individuals, highlighting the loss of identity, belonging, and stability experienced by those who participated in the conflict.

The Spanish Civil War, which took place from 1936 to 1939, was a deeply divisive and brutal conflict that pitted the Republican government, supported by various leftist factions, against the Nationalist forces led by General Francisco Franco. The war not only caused immense suffering and destruction but also resulted in a fractured society and a deeply wounded populace. Guerrilla warfare, characterized by small, mobile bands of fighters engaging in unconventional tactics, was a prominent feature of the conflict, particularly in the post-war period as resistance to Franco's regime persisted.

Gellhorn's observation about the Spaniards being "men without a country or families or homes or work" speaks to the profound dislocation experienced by the guerrilla fighters. The war had upended their lives, leaving them without a sense of belonging or stability. The phrase "men without a country" suggests a loss of national identity and a sense of alienation from the very land they fought to defend. Additionally, the reference to being without families or homes underscores the personal toll of war, as individuals were separated from their loved ones and displaced from their familiar surroundings.

Furthermore, the mention of being without work points to the economic and social challenges faced by the returning guerrilla fighters. The disruption caused by war often led to widespread unemployment and a lack of opportunities for those seeking to rebuild their lives in the war-ravaged aftermath. This aspect of Gellhorn's quote underscores the long-term repercussions of conflict, as individuals grapple with the task of reintegrating into society and finding meaningful employment.

Despite their hardships, Gellhorn notes that "everyone appreciates very much what they did." This acknowledgment of the valor and sacrifice of the guerrilla fighters reflects a collective recognition of their contributions to the cause they believed in. It also speaks to the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. While the fighters may have been left in a state of limbo after the war, their actions and commitment were not forgotten by those who recognized the significance of their struggle.

In conclusion, Martha Gellhorn's quote provides a poignant glimpse into the aftermath of guerrilla fighting in the context of the Spanish Civil War. It serves as a reminder of the profound and enduring impact of war on individuals, encompassing not only physical destruction but also the profound emotional and societal upheaval that follows. The quote captures the sense of displacement, loss, and appreciation experienced by the guerrilla fighters, shedding light on the complex and multifaceted consequences of armed conflict.