How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
A War Cabinet has been formed of five Members, representing, with the Opposition Liberals, the unity of the nation. The three party Leaders have agreed to serve, either in the War Cabinet or in high executive office. The three Fighting Services have been filled. (5-6)
Not the most exciting text in the world, but it shows us how this government dealt efficiently with their own transition while totally fighting the Nazis. The emphasis on unity is particularly relevant.
Quote #2
[…] it must be remembered that we are in the preliminary stage of one of the greatest battles in history, that we are in action at many other points in Norway and in Holland, that we have to be prepared in the Mediterranean, that the air battle is continuous and that many preparations have to be made here at home. (17)
It's interesting to see how aware they were about the enormity of what was ahead. Also, how unprepared Britain was.
Quote #3
I hope that any of my friends and colleagues, or former colleagues, who are affected by the political reconstruction, will make allowance, all allowance, for any lack of ceremony with which it has been necessary to act. (19)
The British government likes its traditions. It's a sign of the urgency of the situation (i.e., war) that the transition happened quickly and without opposition. The possibility of annihilation sure concentrates the mind.
Quote #4
You ask, what is our policy? I will say: It is to wage war, by sea, land and air, with all our might and with all the strength that God can give us; to wage war against a monstrous tyranny, never surpassed in the dark and lamentable catalogue of human crime. (23-24)
This will be an all-out effort, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
Quote #5
You ask, what is our aim? I can answer in one word: victory, victory at all costs, victory in spite of all terror, victory, however long and hard the road may be; for without victory, there is no survival. (26-27)
Nobody could match Churchill in his ability to project confidence and strength in the face of very long odds against a better-equipped and more ruthless enemy. As things looked more and more bleak, he somehow managed to keep this up during the darkest days of the war.