Mencken was called the “Sage of Baltimore.” He was a noted satirist and writer from the early 20th century. He is widely considered one of the premier prose stylists this country has ever produced. He admired Nietzsche and was a fierce critic of religion and populism.
We are currently undergoing another wave of populist politics, empty promises of redemption and fear mongering so I think it is fitting to quote Mencken. His wit is more applicable now than ever.
“On some great and glorious day the plain folks of the land will reach their heart’s desire at last, and the White House will be adorned by a downright moron.” H. L. Mencken
“The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary.” H. L. Mencken