Ambrose Bierce was an American satirist and newspaperman who mysteriously disappeared into the desert. Most folks believe he met his end seeking adventure during the rowdiness of the ongoing war for Mexican independence.
He’s probably best known for a much-anthologized short story called “Occurrence at Owl Creek.” He is also the author of The Devil’s Dictionary. If you’re in a snarky mood, check it out. For everyone else, one entry that caught my eye is reprinted here: Politics, n. strife of interests masquerading as a contest of principles. The conduct of public affairs for private advantage.
