The Devil's Dictionary

Name: The Devil's Dictionary
Author: Ambrose Bierce

By Ambrose Bierce

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About This Book

An alphabetically arranged lexicon of ironic definitions and pungent aphorisms that reinterprets ordinary words to reveal hypocrisy, pretension, and human folly. Entries range from single-line barbs to longer satiric sketches and occasional parodic verse, often illustrated with mock quotations, and take aim at politics, religion, professions, and social customs. The voice is consistently mordant and playful, transforming language into a tool for skeptical observation and cultural critique while maintaining a compact, referential form that blends dictionary format with sustained literary satire.

About the Author

Ambrose Bierce

Ambrose Bierce (1842-1914) was an American writer, journalist, and Civil War veteran, known for his sharp wit and cynical perspective on life. His most famous work, "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," is a poignant exploration of time and perception, often regarded as a classic of American literature. Bierce's writing spans various genres, including short stories, essays, and satirical pieces, with notable collections such as "Fantastic Fables" and "Can Such Things Be?" His unique style and dark humor have left a lasting impact on American literary heritage, making him a significant figure in the realm of 19th-century literature.