OPTIMIST, n. A proponent of the doctrine that black is white.
 Ambrose Bierce, The Devil's Dictionary (1906). copy citation

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Author Ambrose Bierce
Source The Devil's Dictionary
Topic optimism
Date 1906
Language English
Reference
Note
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/files/972/972-h/972-h.htm

Context

“It is held with greatest tenacity by those most accustomed to the mischance of falling into adversity, and is most acceptably expounded with the grin that apes a smile. Being a blind faith, it is inaccessible to the light of disproof—an intellectual disorder, yielding to no treatment but death. It is hereditary, but fortunately not contagious.
OPTIMIST, n. A proponent of the doctrine that black is white.
A pessimist applied to God for relief.
"Ah, you wish me to restore your hope and cheerfulness," said God.
"No," replied the petitioner, "I wish you to create something that would justify them."” source

Meaning and analysis

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