# CLXXV explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ambrose Bierce.

## What happens

A single aphoristic statement declaring that all people are lunatics, but the one who can analyze their own delusion earns the title of philosopher.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Self-Deception

The chapter suggests that delusion is universal, and self-awareness of that delusion is the only distinction.

## Key lines

> All are lunatics, but he who can analyze his delusion is called a philosopher.

Everyone is insane, but those who recognize and examine their own insanity are considered wise.

_The chapter equates philosophy with the ability to introspect on one's own irrationality._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se/chapters/clxxv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se/chapters