The Devil's Dictionary: Decide

Updated May 14, 2020 | Infoplease Staff
by Ambrose Bierce
DECALOGUE
DEFAME

DECIDE

-v.i.

To succumb to the preponderance of one set of influences over another set.

A leaf was riven from a tree,
"I mean to fall to earth," said he.

The west wind, rising, made him veer
"Eastward," said he, "I now shall steer."

The east wind rose with greater force.
Said he: "'Twere wise to change my course."

With equal power they contend.
He said: "My judgment I suspend."

Down died the winds; the leaf, elate,
Cried: "I've decided to fall straight"

"First thoughts are best?" That's not the moral;
Just choose your own and we'll not quarrel.

Howe'er your choice may chance to fall,
You'll have no hand in it at all.

-G.J.

.com/t/lit/devils-dictionary/D/12.html
Sources +