FOOL, n. A person who pervades the domain of intellectual…
“FOOL, n. A person who pervades the domain of intellectual speculation and diffuses himself through the channels of moral activity. He is omnific, omniform, omnipercipient, omniscience, omnipotent. He it was who invented letters, printing, the railroad, the steamboat, the telegraph, the platitude and the circle of the sciences. He created patriotism and taught the nations war --founded theology, philosophy, law, medicine and Chicago. He established monarchical and republican government. He is from everlasting to everlasting --such as creation's dawn beheld he fooleth now. In the morning of time he sang upon primitive hills, and in the noonday of existence headed the procession of being. His grandmotherly hand was warmly tucked-in the set sun of civilization, and in the twilight he prepares Man's evening meal of milk-and-morality and turns down the covers of the universal grave. And after the rest of us shall have retired for the night of eternal oblivion he will sit up to write a histor”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A satirical definition of a "fool" as someone who dominates intellectual thought while also shaping moral and societal structures, embodying omnipotence and creativity across history.
In simple terms: A fool is portrayed as a powerful, all‑encompassing creator of ideas and institutions.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the paradox of knowledge and power.
Themes
satire
philosophy
human nature
Mood
ironic
critical
Type
definition
satirical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- literary criticism
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
creativity
omnipotence
paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this definition reveal about society's view of intellect?
- Can a single individual truly embody all these roles?
A Different Perspective
Potentially overstates the fool's influence, ignoring collective effort.