Accounts Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“Salamander: Originally a reptile inhabiting fire; later, an anthropomorphous immortal, but still a pyrophile. Salamanders are now believed to be extinct, the last one of which we have an account having been seen in Carcassonne by the Abbe Belloc, who exorcised it with a bucket of holy water.”
About This Quote
Source Literature: Short story collection "The Devil's Dictionary", 1906
A mythical salamander, once fire‑loving, is now extinct, symbolizing lost wonder and the danger of trying to control the supernatural.
In simple terms: A fire‑loving creature is extinct, showing loss of wonder.
Key Takeaway
Respect nature’s mysteries and avoid hubris.
Themes
myth
extinction
human hubris
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
literary
mythical
When to use this quote
- environmental education
- mythology lectures
- creative writing prompts
Key Concepts
symbolism
folklore
alchemy
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the salamander represent in modern culture?
- How do we balance curiosity with respect for the unknown?
A Different Perspective
The story may exaggerate for effect, reducing factual credibility.
