Meaning: This quote by H.L. Mencken reflects a cynical and satirical view of society's perception of success and failure. Mencken, a prominent American writer and social critic, often employed his wit and sharp observations to critique various aspects of American culture and society. In this quote, he appears to be commenting on the paradoxical attitudes towards success and failure, suggesting that while failure may be sympathetically attributed to divine providence, success is often viewed with suspicion and linked to malevolent forces.

The first part of the quote, "The theory seems to be that as long as a man is a failure he is one of God's children," implies that society tends to view those who have not achieved success as being under the care or protection of God. This may reflect the notion that those who struggle or face hardships are seen as more virtuous or deserving of empathy and support. It also touches on the idea of the "noble struggle" or the romanticization of suffering as a sign of purity or righteousness.

The second part of the quote, "but that as soon as he succeeds he is taken over by the Devil," presents a stark contrast to the first part. Here, Mencken suggests that once an individual achieves success, their actions or motives are perceived as being influenced by malevolent forces, specifically the Devil. This reflects a common cultural trope where success is often associated with negative qualities such as greed, corruption, or moral compromise. It also speaks to the tendency to distrust or resent those who have achieved a high level of success, as if their accomplishments are somehow tainted or undeserving.

Mencken's use of religious imagery and symbolism in this quote adds depth to his critique of societal attitudes towards success and failure. By invoking the concepts of God and the Devil, he highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of how success and failure are perceived. The quote suggests a pervasive cultural narrative that equates struggle and hardship with moral purity, while stigmatizing success as inherently suspect or corrupt.

It's important to note that Mencken's quote is not meant to be taken literally as a theological statement, but rather as a biting commentary on the contradictions and hypocrisies inherent in societal attitudes towards achievement and adversity. His use of satire and irony serves to highlight the absurdity of these attitudes and to provoke critical reflection on the values and beliefs that underpin them.

In conclusion, H.L. Mencken's quote captures the irony and skepticism with which society often views success and failure. It shines a light on the paradoxical attitudes towards these two states, revealing the tendency to romanticize failure while demonizing success. Through his incisive wit and keen observation, Mencken challenges the prevailing cultural narratives surrounding achievement and adversity, prompting us to question the underlying assumptions and biases that shape our perceptions of success and failure.