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Appetite Quote by Ambrose Bierce

“HOG, n. A bird remarkable for the catholicity of its appetite and serving to illustrate that of ours. Among the Mahometans and Jews, the hog is not in favor as an article of diet, but is respected for the delicacy and the melody of its voice. It is chiefly as a songster that the fowl is esteemed…” quote by Ambrose Bierce
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“HOG, n. A bird remarkable for the catholicity of its appetite and serving to illustrate that of ours. Among the Mahometans and Jews, the hog is not in favor as an article of diet, but is respected for the delicacy and the melody of its voice. It is chiefly as a songster that the fowl is esteemed; the cage of him in full chorus has been known to draw tears from two persons at once. The scientific name of this dicky-bird is _Porcus Rockefelleri_. Mr. Rockefeller did not discover the hog, but it is considered his by right of resemblance.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

The hog, admired for its voice and appetite, is a cultural symbol reflecting varied attitudes toward diet and aesthetics across societies.

In simple terms: The hog symbolizes cultural attitudes toward food and aesthetics.

Key Takeaway

Consider how symbols reflect societal values.

Themes

culture symbolism diet aesthetics

Mood

analytical thoughtful historical

Type

literary cultural

When to use this quote

  • anthropology
  • literary critique
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

animal metaphor social commentary cultural differences

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the hog represent in your culture?
  • How do food symbols shape identity?
A Different Perspective

Symbols can be misinterpreted across contexts.

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