Devil's Dictionary

DIPLOMACY, n. The patriotic art of lying for one's country. Ambrose Bierce, a journalist and former soldier, wrote satirical definitions for the San Francisco Wasp and William Randolph Hearst's San Francisco Examiner in 1881. He brought his biting black humor to bear on spoof definitions of everyday words, shining a sardonic light on hypocrisy and deception. His redefinitions still give us pause for thought.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 256 pages
\n Publication date: 16 November 2018
\n Publisher: Bodleian Library
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Diplomacy, a patriotic art of lying for one's country, has a rich history dating back to 1881 when Ambrose Bierce, a journalist and former soldier for the Union army in the Civil War, began writing satirical definitions for the San Francisco Wasp and later for William Randolph Hearst's San Francisco Examiner. Bierce, known for his biting black humor, brought his unique perspective to bear on spoof definitions of everyday words, deliberately mistranslating the vocabulary of the establishment, the Church, and the politics of his time. Through his columns, Bierce aimed to expose hypocrisy and deception, offering a sardonic light on the world around him.

These columns, which were published in the early 1900s, laid the foundation for what would become Bierce's most famous work, The Cynics Word Book. First published in 1906, this dictionary has stood the test of time, providing readers with a timeless collection of redefinitions that continue to provoke thought and debate.

Over 100 years after its initial publication, Bierce's redefinitions remain relevant and timely. They serve as a reminder of the power of language and the importance of critical thinking. In a world where information is often manipulated and spin is prevalent, Bierce's satire offers a refreshing dose of truth-telling and moral scrutiny.

In his column, Bierce, a contemporary of Mark Twain, showcased his ability to use humor and wit to challenge the status quo. He wrote with a sharp wit, often taking aim at political figures, religious institutions, and societal norms. His redefinitions of words such as "reporter," "un-American," and "politics" offered a satirical commentary on the conduct of public affairs and the pursuit of personal gain.

Bierce's satire was not without its critics, however. Some accused him of being disrespectful and offensive, while others praised him for his boldness and honesty. Despite the controversy, Bierce's legacy as a writer and satirist continues to inspire and influence generations of readers.

In conclusion, diplomacy, as defined by Bierce, is a patriotic art of lying for one's country. Through his satirical definitions and columns, Bierce challenged the establishment, exposed hypocrisy, and offered a sardonic perspective on the world. His The Cynics Word Book, first published in 1906, remains a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and provoke thought. Bierce's legacy as a writer and satirist reminds us of the importance of critical thinking, honesty, and the power of language to shape our understanding of the world.

\n Weight: 370g\n
Dimension: 136 x 205 x 25 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781851245079\n \n