The Rules of Communication

Military fascinates me, the way most of the Pakistani youth adore it, for even its outlook is very electrifying. Take for example the sternness of an army general. Like the one European (probably American or Britisher) who used to tell his junior comrades what he expects from them when he talks to them. He used to say:

I can't write what I mean; I can't say what I mean; but I want you to know what I mean.

I don't know whether they intend to be funny or not.