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Ass Quote by Harlan Ellison

“The real story of our times is seldom told in the horse-puckey-filled memoirs of dopey, self-serving presidents or generals, but in the outrageous, demented lives of guys like Lenny Bruce, Giordano Bruno, Scott Fitzgerald - and Paul Krassner. The burrs under society's saddle. The pains in the ass.” quote by Harlan Ellison
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“The real story of our times is seldom told in the horse-puckey-filled memoirs of dopey, self-serving presidents or generals, but in the outrageous, demented lives of guys like Lenny Bruce, Giordano Bruno, Scott Fitzgerald - and Paul Krassner. The burrs under society's saddle. The pains in the ass.”

Harlan Ellison

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Real Story of Our Times" by Harlan Ellison, 1970s

The quote argues that history’s true, chaotic narratives are hidden in marginalized, unconventional figures rather than official, self‑serving leaders.

In simple terms: History is told by rebels, not presidents.

Key Takeaway

Look beyond official narratives.

Themes

history marginalized voices counterculture truth society

Mood

critical ironic provocative

Type

analytical commentary satirical

When to use this quote

  • political analysis
  • media literacy
  • alternative history
  • biographical study

Key Concepts

Narrative bias cultural critique subversion

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who are the overlooked figures shaping our world?
  • How does power shape historical memory?
A Different Perspective

Official accounts often ignore chaotic, messy realities.

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