Here's to woman! Would that we could fold into her arms without falling into her hands.
Interpretation
The quote expresses a desire for a loving connection with women while avoiding any vulnerability or loss of control.
Ambrose Bierce's quote reflects the complex nature of relationships between men and women. It humorously captures the ambivalence men may feel toward women, celebrating their femininity and warmth while also acknowledging the fears and challenges that may accompany intimacy. The phrase suggests a longing for closeness without the risks that often come with emotional vulnerability, showcasing both affection and caution in romantic dynamics.
In practice
A speaker at a women's empowerment event may use this quote to highlight the complexities of gender relationships.
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.
We need Grace and forgiveness.
Marriage must incessantly contend with a monster that devours everything: familiarity.
Unless modern civilization is a failure, it is entirely feasible and practicable for two races in such essential political, economic and religious harmony as the white and colored people in America, to develop side by side in peace and mutual happiness, the peculiar contribution which each has to make to the culture of their common country.
...and when you’ve known me longer, you’ll learn that I mean everything I say.” “Even the lies?” “Especially the lies.
My time in the arena made me realize how I needed to stop punishing [my mother] for something she couldn't help, specifically the crushing depression she fell into after my father's death. Because sometimes things happen to people and they're not equipped to deal with them.
No one is more conventional than a woman who is falling out of love.
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