The Cynic's Word Book by Ambrose Bierce
"The Cynic's Word Book" by Ambrose Bierce is a satirical lexicon written in the late 19th century. It presents a collection of definitions that twist and critique conventional meanings, offering a cynical take on language, society, and human nature. Through a unique blend of wit, humor, and sharp observation, the work highlights the absurdities of everyday life, politics, and morality. The opening portion introduces readers to Bierce's distinctive style, showcasing entries that
are whimsical yet pointedly critical. For example, he defines terms like "Cynic," suggesting it is someone who sees things as they are rather than as they ought to be. Each entry combines playful wordplay with revealing commentary, illustrating how Bierce uses humor to explore the contradictions and follies of human existence. As the definitions unfold, readers quickly grasp that this work is not just about words, but a deeper reflection on the human condition and societal norms. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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About this eBook
| Author | Bierce, Ambrose, 1842-1914? |
|---|---|
| LoC No. | 06035953 |
| Title | The Cynic's Word Book |
| Credits | Produced by David Widger |
| Reading Level | Reading ease score: 68.4 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read. |
| Language | English |
| LoC Class | PS: Language and Literatures: American and Canadian literature |
| Subject | English language -- Dictionaries -- Humor |
| Subject | English language -- Semantics -- Humor |
| Subject | Vocabulary -- Humor |
| Category | Text |
| eBook-No. | 43951 |
| Release Date | Oct 14, 2013 |
| Last Update | Oct 23, 2024 |
| Copyright | Public domain in the USA. |
| Downloads | 701 downloads in the last 30 days. |
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