|
There is no character, howsoever good and fine, but
it can be destroyed by ridicule, howsoever poor and witless. Observe the
ass, for instance: his character is about perfect, he is the choicest
spirit among all the humbler animals, yet see what ridicule has brought
him to. Instead of feeling complimented when we are called an ass, we
are left in doubt.
- Pudd'nhead Wilson's Calendar |
 AI image created by Barbara Schmidt |
|
Illustration by "Dwig" from |
Concerning the difference between man and the jackass:
some observers hold that there isn't any. But this wrongs the jackass.
- Notebook, 1898 |
|
The term labrick was in constant use by all grown men except certain
of the clergy in the state of Missouri when I was a boy. It had a very
definite meaning & occupied in the matter of strength the middle ground
between scoundrel & son of a bitch...But...let me brush aside the
ornamental & give you the plain & authentic definition of the
word. Labrick is substantially ass, a little enlarged & emphasized;
let us say, labrick is a little stronger than ass, & not quite as
strong as idiot. I have been an author for 20 years and an ass for 55. |
Quotations | Newspaper Articles | Special Features | Links | Search
