The simplest form of using satire and sarcasm
is in direct _ridicule_.
Ridicule, satire, and sarcasm are suitable for use against an open
enemy, such as a political opponent, against a public nuisance which
ought to be suppressed, or in behalf of higher ideals and standards.
The one thing that makes this style of little effect is anger or morbid
intensity. While some thing or some one is attacked, perhaps with
ferocity, results are to be obtained by winning the reader. So it comes
about that winning, good-natured humor is an essential element in really
successful ridicule. If intense or morbid hatred or temper is allowed
to dominate, the reader is repulsed and made distrustful,
and turns away without being affected in the desired way at all.
The following, which opens a little known essay of Edgar Allan Poe's,
is one of the most perfect examples of simple ridicule in the English
language. We may have our doubts as to whether Poe was justified in
using such withering satire on poor Mr. Channing; but we cannot help
feeling that the workmanship is just what it ought to be when ridicule
is employed in a proper cause.
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