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Cover of Crankisms

Crankisms

Written by Lisle de Vaux Matthewman

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Aphorisms and apothegmsWit and humor

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About this book

"Crankisms" by Lisle de Vaux Matthewman is a collection of aphorisms and reflections written in the early 20th century. This book presents witty and often critical observations on human behavior, societal norms, and the complexities of relationships, particularly between men and women. The author combines humor with insight, aiming to provoke thought and self-reflection among readers about their own lives and interactions. The content of "Crankisms" is comprised of 100 succinct and pointed sayings, each tackling various aspects of human experience, such as love, friendship, vanity, and morality. Matthewman cleverly employs irony and satire to address common prejudices and misperceptions, particularly about gender dynamics. For instance, he explores the difference between how men and women perceive each other, the pitfalls of societal expectations, and the contradictions inherent in human nature. Each aphorism encourages the reader to consider the ironic and often hypocritical nature of societal attitudes, making it both an entertaining and thought-provoking read.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Crankisms, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 4 hours
  • intermediate
  • humorous
  • witty
  • satirical

Lisle de Vaux Matthewman's "Crankisms" is a collection of pithy, humorous, and often satirical observations, aphorisms, and short anecdotes. Rather than a narrative, the book presents a series of disconnected 'crankisms' – witty remarks or droll comments on human nature, societal conventions, and the absurdities of daily life. Published in an era known for its appreciation of epigrammatic wit, it offers a window into the social commentary and comedic sensibilities of the early 20th century. The work is characterized by its brevity, sharp wit, and a generally lighthearted yet incisive critique of common follies and pretensions.

“A man's character is often revealed by the company he avoids.”

Key themes

Human Folly and Absurdity
This theme explores the inherent irrationality, illogical thinking, and self-deception prevalent in human behavior. Matthewman's 'crankisms' frequently highlight the comical and often contradictory ways people think, speak, and act, exposing the gap between intention and outcome, or belief and reality.
Social Critique and Satire
The book serves as a sharp, albeit often gentle, critique of societal norms, conventions, and pretenses of the early 20th century. Matthewman satirizes class distinctions, the superficiality of polite society, the hypocrisy embedded in social rituals, and the often-empty rhetoric of public life.
The Power and Limitations of Language/Wit
Matthewman's entire work is a testament to the power of language and wit as tools for observation, commentary, and amusement. The theme explores how carefully chosen words, irony, and clever phrasing can distill complex ideas, expose truths, and elicit laughter, while also implicitly acknowledging the limitations of language to fully capture reality.

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