# XC explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ambrose Bierce.

## What happens

A brief reflection on the virtue of generosity toward a defeated enemy, suggesting it is a safe and risk-free form of magnanimity.

## Key lines

> Generosity to a fallen foe is a virtue that takes no chances.

Being generous to an enemy who is already defeated is an easy virtue that involves no risk.

_A cynical observation on the safety of magnanimity when the opponent is powerless._

## Links

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