1,237 Quotes by Ambrose Bierce

ELEGY, n. A composition in verse, in which, without employing any of the methods of humor, the writer aims to produce in the reader's mind the dampest kind of dejection.

Rum, n. Generically, fiery liquors that produce madness in total abstainers.

PICKANINNY, n. The young of the "Procyanthropos", or "Americanus dominans". It is small, black and charged with political fatalities.

COMFORT, n. A state of mind produced by contemplation of a neighbor's uneasiness.

War is God's way of teaching Americans geography.

Noise: a stench in the ear.

Homo Creator's testimony to the sound construction and fine finish of Deus Creatus. A popular form of abjection, having an element of pride.

Meekness: Uncommon patience in planning a revenge that is worth while.

APHORISM, n. Predigested wisdom. The flabby wine-skin of his brain Yields to some pathologic strain, And voids from its unstored abysm The driblet of an aphorism. "The Mad Philosopher," 1697