The Devil’s Dictionary

This book has been a part of my library for many years and I have delighted in the imagination and irreverence within. What began as a newspaper column, quickly became a popular feature. Like Mark Twain, his contemporary, Bierce has a sardonic and sarcastic wit. The reader will be entertained with off-the-wall definitions such as misfortune: the kind of fortune that never misses.

First published in 1911, the commentary is still relevant, insightful and inspired. If one finds bitterness in these definitions, it may come from the fact that the author was a hardened veteran of some of the Civil War’s most brutal battles. There also must have been something in the streets of San Francisco which engendered such wit and sarcasm. If you are not familiar with this book, run to add it to your library. You will find yourself reading aloud to whoever will listen to these remarkable observations on the twisted meaning of words. Quickly turn to “politician” and prepare to laugh.