Meaning: The quote "Egotism, n: Doing the New York Times crossword puzzle with a pen" by Ambrose Bierce is a humorous and satirical take on the concept of egotism. Ambrose Bierce was an American journalist, writer, and satirist known for his wit and acerbic humor. In this quote, Bierce uses the seemingly innocuous act of doing a crossword puzzle with a pen to illustrate the idea of egotism.

At first glance, the act of doing a crossword puzzle with a pen may seem trivial, but Bierce's choice of imagery is deliberate. The New York Times crossword puzzle is renowned for its difficulty and complexity, and many people approach it with caution, using a pencil to allow for erasures and corrections. By suggesting that doing the puzzle with a pen is an act of egotism, Bierce is highlighting the arrogance and overconfidence of someone who believes they can complete the challenging puzzle without making any mistakes.

The use of the word "egotism" in this context is significant. Egotism refers to an excessive sense of self-importance or a preoccupation with oneself. By equating this characteristic with the act of using a pen to complete a crossword puzzle, Bierce is drawing a parallel between the perceived difficulty of the task and the individual's belief in their own abilities. In essence, the quote serves as a humorous commentary on the folly of overestimating one's own competence.

Bierce's choice of medium, the New York Times crossword puzzle, is also noteworthy. The puzzle is a symbol of intellectual prowess and is often associated with erudition and sophistication. By using this particular puzzle in his analogy, Bierce is targeting a specific demographic – those who consider themselves intellectually superior or more accomplished than others. The act of completing the puzzle with a pen becomes a metaphor for the individual's desire to display their intelligence and capability, even in a seemingly inconsequential activity.

Furthermore, the use of humor in the quote adds depth to its message. Bierce's wit and irony serve to underscore the absurdity of egotism. The image of someone stubbornly forging ahead with a pen, refusing to acknowledge any potential errors, is both comical and thought-provoking. It invites the reader to reflect on their own tendencies towards egotism and hubris, and serves as a lighthearted reminder to approach life with humility and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

In conclusion, Ambrose Bierce's quote "Egotism, n: Doing the New York Times crossword puzzle with a pen" is a clever and incisive commentary on the nature of egotism. Through the use of a seemingly mundane activity, Bierce highlights the folly of overestimating one's own abilities and the absurdity of excessive self-importance. The quote serves as a reminder to approach life with humility and to be mindful of the pitfalls of egotism.