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IMBECILITY, n. A kind of divine inspiration, or sacred…

“IMBECILITY, n. A kind of divine inspiration, or sacred fire affecting censorious critics of this dictionary.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“IMBECILITY, n. A kind of divine inspiration, or sacred fire affecting censorious critics of this dictionary.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Imbecility is humorously defined as a divine spark that ignites criticism of the dictionary itself.

In simple terms: Imbecility is a sarcastic term for divine inspiration that attacks its own source.

Key Takeaway

Recognize satire in self‑referential criticism.

Themes

satire language critique

Mood

witty skeptical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic writing
  • editorial commentary
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

literary humor semantic irony

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does satire shape our understanding of language?
  • When is self‑critique constructive?
A Different Perspective

Such definitions may confuse rather than clarify.

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