Vom Tag: The High Guard

Essays from the sharp edge of modernity

Latest Entry

Latest entry:

The Relentless Pursuit of the Vorschlag

By John Collins | November 7, 2025

In the German School of swordsmanship, the concept of Vorschlag (the "Before," or Initiative) is the heart of the aggressive stance. It is not merely about striking first; it is about establishing a dominating presence that forces the opponent to react, rather than act. If you are defending, you have already lost the positional advantage. Our goal, therefore, is relentless, educated pursuit of the opening strike.

This aggressive mindset applies universally. In any endeavour - business, debate, or training - waiting for the other party to define the terms is a mistake. The Vom Tag philosophy dictates that you must constantly be moving, creating threats, and exploiting the moment of transition.

It is the focused pursuit of this mindset that inspired me to create this blog.

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About Vom Tag

Welcome to Vom Tag, where I write essays from the sharp edge of modernity. In many ways, I yearn to return to traditional ways and reject modernity, while NOT rejecting technology. As a technologist, I no longer consider technology to be synonymous with modernity, and I no longer recognise that connection. Progressive modernity is rejecting technology, while I embrace it.

I delve into history, martial arts, strategic thinking, and the art of seizing the initiative in every aspect of life. Join me as I explore tactics, philosophy, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.