To Either by Ambrose Bierce (1911)
The book "The Devil's Dictionary" by Ambrose Bierce is a classic work of literature that offers a unique perspective on the English language and its various uses. It is a collection of definitions for words, phrases, and idioms, but with a twist - each definition is written in a humorous and satirical way, often poking fun at the absurdities of everyday life. The book is divided into two parts: the first part contains definitions for words that are commonly used, while the second part contains definitions for more obscure words and phrases. Each definition is written in a clever and witty manner, often using wordplay or puns to make the reader laugh out loud. Some examples of definitions from the book include: "A bluestocking is a woman who reads books; a man who does the same is called a 'nerd.'" "Chastity is the most unpopular of the virtues, because it is the most ridiculous." And "An optimist is a person who thinks that here and now is the best possible time to live, even when he's dead." Overall, "The Devil's Dictionary" is a hilarious and insightful work of literature that offers a unique perspective on language and culture. It is a must-read for anyone looking to expand their vocabulary and gain a better understanding of the English language.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1911 · Genre: Satire, Short Stories, Fiction · 478 words
First lines
Back further than I know, in San Francisco dwelt a wealthy man.
So rich was he That none could be Wise, good and great in like degree.
What this Textopian page supports
To Either is listed on Textopian as an essay by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1911 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1911 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Short Stories, Fiction, Comedy, Historical Fiction
- Length: 478 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To Either by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering To Either?
- How does this essay by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Six And One by Ambrose Bierce
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- The Scurril Press by Ambrose Bierce
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- A Commuted Sentence by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — The work is a sharp commentary on societal norms and human behaviors.
- Short Stories — The book contains several short stories with distinct narratives.
- Fiction — While based on societal observations, the stories and characters are invented.
- Comedy — Bierce's writing often employs humor as a tool to deliver his critique.
Tags
gothic fiction · supernatural horror · mystery · thriller · psychological horror · literary fiction · short stories · symbolism · allegory · dark humor · satire · social commentary