Churchill contrasts direct participation with detached observation. To be “making the news” means taking part in events and helping to shape their outcome, while “taking it” suggests receiving information about events after they have happened. His distinction between an actor and a critic makes the same point: involvement carries responsibility and risk, whereas criticism can be offered from a position outside the action.

The remark reflects Churchill’s preference at this stage of his life for active involvement in public and military affairs. It does not necessarily dismiss criticism as unimportant; scrutiny and analysis can themselves serve valuable purposes. Rather, the quote expresses a personal preference for participation over commentary. More broadly, it can be applied to situations in which a person must decide whether to remain an observer or accept the uncertainty and responsibility that come with taking action.