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Lessons for Writers, II

© John Lovett

I am constructing this series of essays for writers in a basic military way. The first of the series, Col. Hackworth's, was tactical in nature. In other words, how do soldiers act in combat. This next essay is strategic in nature. How do leaders act in peace and wartime.

The next place I am going to visit for writers is that of Colonel Harry G. Summers. Col. Summers has had a distinguished career as a soldier, a military strategist, and now a military commentator. He's the author of the widely acclaimed On Strategy: A Critical Analysis of the Conduct of the Vietnam War. He is also the editor - in - chief for Vietnam Magazine http://www.thehistorynet.com/Vietnam/ .

In one of my first essays, I mentioned that Colonel Blimp is dead. Invented by the British humor magazine PUNCH in the 19th Century, Colonel Blimp exemplified the worst of the small, insular British Army of that period. Unfortunately, that image has continued in movies to this day.

For many military movies, leaders are portrayed as arrogant, stupid, vapid, and pompous. This characterization is far from the truth. I have seen arrogant leaders, but certainly not vapid or stupid leaders.

As Col. Summers put it, "I think that to be a military strategist, you would have to be very well versed in military history, be fascinated with it, and have a very good background in military history in general, sort of an eclectic view of military history." He goes on with, "You have to understand the dynamics of international politics ..."

Simply put, the "Modern Major General" is well educated, well trained and disciplined, and knowledgeable about the subject of war. As a writer, you have the twin obligations to stay loyal to the character and stay loyal to the truth. If your character is vain, arrogant, and stupid, then so be it. Keep in mind, that very often the opposite is more true. Try to write your military characters accordingly.

Now, writing at the soldier level and writing at the strategic level are two distinct character building exercises. As I gave you Hackworth's rules, I give you now Summer's Rules. Keep in mind that these rules apply to military leaders. These are things that you as a writer should bring forth in your character so that there is more life and realism.

Objective - set and know your goals.

Offensive - carry the war to the enemy, destroy his forces.

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