A.W. Tozer addresses the pervasive pessimism that followed World War I, describing how materialism, pessimism, cynicism, and skepticism became the dominant attitudes of the 1920s and 1930s. He notes that intellectuals across various fields succumbed to these gloomy perspectives, leading to a general sense of despair about the future, particularly regarding prophecy and civilization's fate. Tozer critiques the liberal religious response of the time, which, while optimistic, was based on a misguided interpretation of scripture. He emphasizes the need for genuine faith and hope amidst the prevailing darkness, urging believers to seek true understanding and trust in God's promises.