TRUTHFUL, adj. Dumb and illiterate.
Interpretation
The quote satirically defines 'truthful' as something that can be connected to ignorance, suggesting a deeper reflection on the nature of truth.
Ambrose Bierce's definition of 'truthful' as 'dumb and illiterate' presents a cynical view of honesty. By associating truthfulness with a lack of sophistication, Bierce challenges the reader to consider how truth can sometimes be simplistic or uninformed, highlighting the complexities and nuances that surround the concept of truth in society and communication.
In practice
In a debate, you might quote this to emphasize the complexities involved in discussing truth.
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.
If you want to explore things you haven't explored, having people who look just like you and think just like you is not the best way.
If I limit myself to knowledge that I consider true beyond doubt, I minimize the risk of error but I maximize, at the same time, the risk of missing out on what may be the subtlest, most important and most rewarding things in life.
Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hatred. It is a power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the shackles of selfishness.
You can discover what your enemy fears most by observing the means he uses to frighten you.
O soul, be patient: thou shalt find A little matter mend all this; Some strain of music to thy mind, Some praise for skill not spent amiss.
Moderation in all things - including moderation.
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