MATERIAL, adj. Having an actual existence, as distinguished from an imaginary one. Important.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the significance of tangible realities over mere thoughts or fantasies.
Ambrose Bierce's definition of 'material' highlights the importance of concrete existence in contrast to the abstract or imaginative. It suggests a focus on what is real and substantial, encouraging individuals to recognize and value the things that have actual presence and relevance in their lives, rather than getting lost in dreams or ideals that do not manifest in reality.
In practice
In a discussion about philosophical ideas, this quote can be used to emphasize the value of tangible outcomes over theoretical concepts.
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.
The worst thing to call somebody is crazy. It's dismissive. "I don't understand this person. So they're crazy." That's bullshit. These people are not crazy. They strong people. Maybe their environment is a little sick.
Poverty is not a lack of character. Poverty is a lack of cash.
The Son of God became incarnate in the souls of men to instill the feeling of brotherhood. All are brothers and all children of God.
I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past.
A bullet can kill the enemy, but a bullet can also produce an enemy, depending on whom that bullet strikes.
The responsibility of philanthropy rests with us. The wealthier we are, the more powerful we get. We cannot put the entire onus on the government.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.