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Brotherhood Quote by H.L. Mencken

“They are brothers to the fox who boasted that he had made the hounds run…” quote by H.L. Mencken
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““They are brothers to the fox who boasted that he had made the hounds run…””

H.L. Mencken

About This Quote

Source Book: The American Language by H.L. Mencken, 1921

Critiques the pretentiousness of self‑important intellectuals, comparing them to a boastful fox that merely excites the dogs.

In simple terms: Self‑importance is empty bragging.

Key Takeaway

Avoid empty bragging.

Themes

humility pretension intellectualism

Mood

skeptical ironic

Type

satirical critical

When to use this quote

  • academic conferences
  • social media debates
  • political speeches

Key Concepts

ego self‑importance boasting

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value substance over style?
  • How does bragging affect credibility?
A Different Perspective

Might overlook genuine expertise.

2.4 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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