Redefining misanthropy for a fresh generation. Standard posts begin with a definition from Ambrose Bierce's The Devil's Dictionary followed by a modern adjustment. Miscellany on Wednesday and storytelling on Saturday.
Monday, October 24, 2005
Benefactor
Benefactor, n. One who makes heavy purchases of ingratitude, without, however, materially affecting the price, which is still within the means of all.
2005 Update: A former beneficiary and future target.
Benefactor,n., Santa Claus. One of whom we ask much, but one whom we consistently fail to thank. Also see, fairy godmother. Possibly derived from beholden.
I can't think of anything, so here's an anecdote. There was a rich socialite in NYC who wanted to sponsor a string quartet, in imitation of Mrs. Whitney et. al. So some of my dad's friends went over and played for her, but she dismissed them rudely. As the 2nd violinist was putting away his instrument, he said, loudly, "Oh well. I guess you can't make a silk ear out of a sow's purse."
It was raining from the first and I was dying there of thirst, so I came in here. And your long time curse hurts, but what is worse is this pain in here. I can't stay in here. Ain't it clear, that I just can't fit. Yes, I think it's time for us to quit. When we meet again, introduced as friends, please don't let on that you knew me when I was hungry and it was your world. --Bob Dylan, "Just Like A Woman"
Two good definitions there.
ReplyDeleteBenefactor,n., Santa Claus. One of whom we ask much, but one whom we consistently fail to thank. Also see, fairy godmother. Possibly derived from beholden.
Forgot to say, CONGRATS on the White Sox win! YEA!!!
ReplyDeleteIt is better to give than to receive. And whooeee Konerko and Podsednik sure did give their share in last night's win. :)
ReplyDeleteGO WHITE SOX!
everyone needs a Marlon Brando
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Santa Luce.
ReplyDeleteSar, I just love the people in the bandwagon seats. You guys are the best!
Karma, I coulda been a contender.
Benefactor,n. What people who want to control others with material goods call themselves; much maligned in really old movies like Pollyanna.
ReplyDeleteAlso someone who has an effect on others in some way; Doug has benefactor in my journey into perversion of the English language.
That was lame I know, but I’m assuming he’ll be in a good mood due to the White Sox winning.
Posting at 3:52 am? Doug - get some sleep!
ReplyDeletebenefactor is the asshole that breaks your heart and teaches you to never trust a man, one of the most important lessons in this life.
ReplyDeleteAlice, the fact that you deign to read and comment here puts me in a good mood all by itself. White Sox winning makes it unassailable.
ReplyDeleteFred, you're a good benefactor. That's when I have time.
Ooh, Ariel, sorry. You deserve trustworthiness.
benefactor-
ReplyDeleteis that at all like being a contender?
"I coulda benefactor."
Hmmmm, maybe not.
I can't think of anything, so here's an anecdote.
ReplyDeleteThere was a rich socialite in NYC who wanted to sponsor a string quartet, in imitation of Mrs. Whitney et. al. So some of my dad's friends went over and played for her, but she dismissed them rudely.
As the 2nd violinist was putting away his instrument, he said, loudly, "Oh well. I guess you can't make a silk ear out of a sow's purse."
(Weirsdo - bravo and brilliant, 2nd violinist!)
ReplyDeleteAriella, that's goofy but I really, really like it.
ReplyDeleteWeirsdo, I agree with Sar. That's great.
Benefactor... sure beats a malefactor?
ReplyDeleteSince I'm a beneficiary of your wit and wisdom, am I a future target?
ReplyDeleteWow, a 21st century My Three Sons with a4g as Uncle Ernie?
ReplyDeleteAw, Actonbell. Thanks.
Nice, A4G.
Aral I think it depends on whether you're the subject or the object.
Yes, Dddragon and you might even notice the difference :P
Benefactor, n. A person one resents in return for favors received.
ReplyDeleteI wish I had one of those. I could use some benefacting about now.
ReplyDeleteBenefactor, that reminded me of this:
ReplyDeleteIt was raining from the first and I was dying there of thirst, so I came in here. And your long time curse hurts, but what is worse is this pain in here. I can't stay in here. Ain't it clear, that I just can't fit. Yes, I think it's time for us to quit. When we meet again, introduced as friends, please don't let on that you knew me when I was hungry and it was your world.
--Bob Dylan, "Just Like A Woman"
Andrew, so gratitude would be earned by theft? Sounds about right.
ReplyDeleteI'd help you out, Jamie Dawn, but all I have is a credit card.
Icy, I can see why a dog would like that song.