In every American there is an air of incorrigible innocence, which seems to conceal a diabolical cunning

In every American there is an air of incorrigible innocence, which seems to conceal a diabolical cunning

A.E. Housman, the renowned English poet and scholar, is perhaps best known for his collection of poems in "A Shropshire Lad." However, his keen observations on human nature and society are also evident in his prose and letters. One such observation that stands out is his belief that in every American there is an air of incorrigible innocence, which seems to conceal a diabolical cunning.

Housman's statement may seem controversial or even offensive to some, but it is important to understand the context in which he made this observation. Housman lived during a time when America was emerging as a global superpower, and he witnessed firsthand the rapid industrialization and expansion of American influence around the world. As a keen observer of human behavior, Housman likely saw how Americans presented themselves as innocent and naive, while simultaneously engaging in complex political and economic maneuvers to further their interests.

The idea of incorrigible innocence masking diabolical cunning is not unique to Americans, of course. It is a common theme in literature and philosophy, reflecting the complexity and duality of human nature. Housman's observation can be seen as a commentary on the facade that people often present to the world, hiding their true intentions and motivations behind a mask of innocence.