Bible Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“REVELATION, n. A famous book in which St. John the Divine concealed all that he knew. The revealing is done by the commentators, who know nothing.”
About This Quote
A satirical definition that suggests true insight comes from readers, not the author, implying that the work itself is opaque.
In simple terms: Insight emerges from interpretation, not the text.
Key Takeaway
Interpretation creates meaning.
Themes
Satire
Epistemology
Literary criticism
Irony
Mood
Wry
Cynical
Reflective
Type
Definition
Satirical definition
Literary critique
When to use this quote
- Academic analysis
- Book clubs
- Literary criticism
- Philosophical debate
Key Concepts
Authorship
Reader response
Knowledge limits
Practical Applications
- Teaching critical reading
- Encouraging interpretive essays
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reader bias shape interpretation?
- Can a text ever be truly self-contained?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that authorial intent can be discerned, challenging the notion that only readers know.
