H. L. Mencken ( 10 of 103 )
Theology is the effort to explain the unknowable in terms of the not worth knowing.
Theology is the effort to explain the unknowable in terms of the not worth knowing.
The truth that survives is simply the lie that is pleasantest to believe.
The truth that survives is simply the lie that is pleasantest to believe.
All I ask is equal freedom. When it is denied, as it always is, I take it anyhow.
All I ask is equal freedom. When it is denied, as it always is, I take it anyhow.
Writing books is certainly a most unpleasant occupation. It is lonesome, unsanitary, and maddening. Many authors go crazy.
Writing books is certainly a most unpleasant occupation. It is lonesome, unsanitary, and maddening. Many authors go crazy.
In war the heroes always outnumber the soldiers ten to one.
In war the heroes always outnumber the soldiers ten to one.
I never agree with Communists or any other kind of kept men.
I never agree with Communists or any other kind of kept men.
Of government, at least in democratic states, it may be said briefly that it is an agency engaged wholesale, and read more
Of government, at least in democratic states, it may be said briefly that it is an agency engaged wholesale, and as a matter of solemn duty, in the performance of acts which all self-respecting individuals refrain from as a matter of common decency.
Government, in its very essence, is opposed to all increase in knowledge. Its tendency is always towards permanence and against read more
Government, in its very essence, is opposed to all increase in knowledge. Its tendency is always towards permanence and against change...[T]he progress of humanity, far from being the result of government, has been made entirely without its aid and in the face if its constant and bitter opposition.
Bachelors know more about women than married men; if they didn't, they'd be married too.
Bachelors know more about women than married men; if they didn't, they'd be married too.
Democracy is only a dream: it should be put in the same category as Arcadia, Santa Claus, and Heaven.
Democracy is only a dream: it should be put in the same category as Arcadia, Santa Claus, and Heaven.
