A small wooden arrow lies diagonally across folded blank paper on a dark blue surface scattered with fine dust.

Original artwork, not a still

The Art of War

Sun Tzu

Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.

Behind the line

What it means

Our interpretation.

Speed and surprise are central to this account of warfare. The speaker urges movement along unexpected routes toward places an opponent has left unguarded. The emphasis falls on acting before the other side is ready, rather than giving it time to prepare.

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