Sun Tzu

The Book of Army Management says: On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough: hence the institution of gongs and drums. Nor can ordinary objects be seen clearly enough: hence the institution of banners and flags.

It is unlucky to be stubborn in the face of insurmountable odds

Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.

Thus the expert in battle moves the enemy, and is not moved by him.

If he sends reinforcements everywhere, he will everywhere be weak.

If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the enemy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward as if to the attack are signs that he will retreat.

It is best to keep one’s own state intact; to crush the enemy’s state is only second best.

It is easy to love your friend, but sometimes the hardest lesson to learn is to love your enemy.

Attack by Stratagem

Hence the skillful fighter puts himself into a position which makes defeat impossible, and does not miss the moment for defeating the enemy.

If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat.

Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.

Invincibility is in oneself, vulnerability in the opponent.

Put them in a spot where they have no place to go, and they will die before fleeing.