SIREN, n. One of several musical prodigies famous for a vain attempt to dissuade Odysseus from a life on the ocean wave. Figuratively, any lady of splendid promise, dissembled purpose and disappointing performance.
Interpretation
The quote humorously critiques the deceptive allure of beauty and talent.
Ambrose Bierce's definition of 'Siren' playfully suggests that though Sirens are known for trying to lead Odysseus astray with their enchanting music, they ultimately symbolize the disappointment that can arise from alluring appearances. This highlights the theme of disillusionment with ideals, particularly regarding women or things that seem promising but can fail to deliver real fulfillment.
In practice
This quote can be used in a discussion about the superficial nature of fame during a seminar on media studies.
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.
That's the kind of ad I like, facts, facts, facts.
There is no such thing as fun for the whole family.
There are two impossibilities in life: "just one drink" and "an honest politician."
When I ask how old your toddler is, I don't need to hear '27 months.' 'He's two' will do just fine. He's not a cheese. And I didn't really care in the first place.
In Britain, girls seem to be either bright or attractive. In America, that's not the case. They're both.
Mom claimed that I could carry a tune at 2 or 3 years of age. Maybe she was a little prejudiced.
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