X, n. In our alphabet being a needless letter has an added invincibility to the attacks of the spelling reformers, and like them, will doubtless last as long as the language.
Interpretation
The letter X's permanence in language symbolizes resilience against change and criticism.
In this quote, Ambrose Bierce reflects on the nature of language and its components, particularly focusing on the letter 'X'. He suggests that despite criticism, some elements, like 'X', possess a kind of invincibility that allows them to endure through the whims of reform. This observation extends beyond the alphabet, hinting at the broader idea that certain things in life withstand challenges and continue to hold significance.
In practice
In a speech about the importance of tradition in language development.
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 believe in God, work with Him. If you do not, become one.
One area of law more than any other besmirches the constitutional vision of human dignity. . . . The barbaric death penalty violates our Constitution. Even the most vile murderer does not release the state from its obligation to respect dignity, for the state does not honor the victim by< emulating his murderer. Capital punishment's fatal flaw is that it treats people as objects to be toyed with and discarded. . . . One day the Court will outlaw the death penalty. Permanently.
The cosmos is within us. We are made of star stuff
Disobedience is the true foundation of liberty. The obedient must be slaves.
The vilest deeds like poison weeds Bloom well in prison air; It is only what is good in man That wastes and withers there.
When He gives, He shows you His Kindness; when He deprives, He shows you His power. And in all that, He is making Himself known to you and coming to you with His gentleness.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.