PASTIME, n. A device for promoting dejection. Gentle exercise for intellectual debility.
Interpretation
The quote humorously critiques pastimes as activities that distract from deeper intellectual engagement.
Ambrose Bierce's definition of 'pastime' satirically suggests that engaging in trivial activities serves more to foster feelings of dejection and a lack of mental stimulation. It implies that many leisure activities are merely distractions that prevent individuals from engaging in more meaningful pursuits, and it cleverly reflects Bierce's often cynical view of human nature and society.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of meaningful engagement, one might quote Bierce to emphasize the futility of trivial pursuits.
PALM, n. A species of tree . . . of which the familiar "itching palm" ("Palma hominis") is most widely distributed . . . . This noble vegetable exudes a kind of invisible gum, which may be detected by applying to the bark a piece of gold or silver.
Human nature is pretty well balanced; for every lacking virtue there is a rough substitute that will serve at a pinch--as cunning is the wisdom of the unwise, and ferocity the courage of the coward.
Indigestion: A disease which the patient and his friends frequently mistake for deep religious conviction and concern for the salvation of mankind. As the simple Red Man of the Western Wild put it, with, it must be confessed, a certain force: 'Plenty well, no pray; big belly ache, heap God.'
Disobey n:To celebrate with an appropriate ceremony the maturity of a command
NOUMENON, n. That which exists, as distinguished from that which merely seems to exist, the latter being a phenomenon. The noumenon is a bit difficult to locate; it can be apprehended only by a process of reasoning - which is a phenomenon.
PARDON, v. To remit a penalty and restore to the life of crime. To add to the lure of crime the temptation of ingratitude.
There are two insults no human being will endure: that he has no sense of humor, and that he has never known trouble.
I would like to take you seriously, but to do so would affront your intelligence.
Once I put that wig on, I didn't say an intelligent thing for four months. My voice went up. I walked differently. I'd ask incredibly stupid questions.
I never cease being dumbfounded by the unbelievable things people believe.
Everyone has a right to be stupid, but Comrade MacDonald abuses the privilege.
Ron's eyebrows rose so high that they were in danger of disappearing into his hair.
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