Showing results by author "H. L. Mencken" in All Categories

Written during the 1920s, an era that reflects much of our modern times 100 years later, this book by culture critic and scholar Mencken dissects what democracy is. The book’s three parts are “Democratic Man,” “The Democratic State” that includes a chapter on popular will and a chapter on politicians, and “Democracy and Liberty” with a section on corruption under democracy, followed by a “Coda” that discusses the future of democracy.

In this captivating exploration, the author reflects on years spent immersed in the English language, particularly the notable distinctions between British and American English. From vocabulary and syntax to pronunciation and grammatical nuances, he shares his keen observations shaped by both extensive reading and personal interactions with English speakers. Driven by a passion for understanding these differences, he sought a comprehensive study that could illuminate their origins, only to discover a surprising lack of literature on the topic. Join him as he delves into the rich tapestry of ...

Hear a recorded interview between Donald H. Kirkley and H.L. Mencken, American journalist, essayist, satirist, cultural critic, and scholar of American English.

Famed journalist, satirist, and cultural critic Henry Louis (H. L.) Mencken is known as the chief heretic of the American civic religion for a reason. From the corruption of politicians to the dangers of mob rule, Mencken explores the pitfalls of democracy with his trademark irreverence and insight. In our age of demagogues, Notes on Democracy is as relevant today as it was nearly a century ago.

American author, scholar, and satirist H.L. Mencken wrote The American Language in 1919, intending to defend American speech from prescriptivist critics. "America itself is unutterably vulgar. But vulgarity, after all, means no more than a yielding to natural impulses in the face of conventional inhibitions, and that yielding to natural impulses is at the heart of all healthy language-making."

Originally published in 1922, this book considers topics that remain of vital interest to today’s readers, including monogamy and polygamy, the double standard, sexual harassment, and declining marriage rates. Written in Mencken’s characteristic no-nonsense manner, In Defense of Women crackles with controversy and caustic wit.

In this engaging second series, H.L. Mencken delivers his trademark sharp critiques on the follies of humanity—exposing the lack of genuine artistry and compassion in American art and society. He examines the misguided fervor of crusades like Prohibition and adds a humorous twist by exploring the peculiar mating rituals between the sexes. Join Jim Locke as he brings Menckens biting wit and insightful observations to life.

American journalist, essayist, satirist, and cultural critic H.L. Mencken makes his 3-pronged case for the death penalty for those who take the lives of other people, challenging civilized order. Mencken argues the death penalty is a form of catharsis for the immediate victims of the crime, and is not solely for deterring other criminals, but also to give peace of mind to the society that has been wronged.