fortune

Display random fortune

$ fortune

$ fortune -s

$ fortune -o

$ fortune [literature]

$ fortune -c

fortune [options] [databases...]

fortune displays a random quotation, joke, or saying from its database files. It's the classic Unix program for adding whimsy to terminals and login sessions.
Multiple fortune databases cover categories like literature, riddles, definitions, and jokes. Custom database files can be created with the strfile utility.
fortune is commonly added to shell startup files for daily motivation or amusement.

DATABASES

Fortune cookie files to use.

Short fortunes only (< 160 chars).

Long fortunes only.

Show the fortune file source.

Include offensive fortunes.

Include all fortune files.

List available fortune files.

Match pattern in fortunes.

Display help information.

Offensive fortunes disabled by default. Database availability varies by installation. Some content may be dated.

fortune originated in Unix Version 7 (1979), inspired by fortune cookies. It became a standard part of Unix systems, providing entertainment and occasionally wisdom at the command line.

cowsay(1), figlet(1)