Ambrose Bierce

Ambrose Bierce Biography

Ambrose Gwinnett Bierce (June 24, 1842 – circa 1914) was an American short story writer, journalist, poet, and Civil War veteran. Born in Meigs County, Ohio, Bierce was the tenth of thirteen children. He developed a love for literature early on, influenced by his parents' extensive book collection. At 15, he left home to become a printer's apprentice, marking the beginning of his lifelong engagement with the written word.

During the American Civil War, Bierce enlisted in the Union Army's 9th Indiana Infantry Regiment, serving with distinction in several major battles, including Shiloh and Chickamauga. His wartime experiences profoundly influenced his later writings, infusing them with realism and a deep understanding of human nature under duress.

After the war, Bierce settled in San Francisco, where he embarked on a prolific writing career. He became known for his satirical wit and was a prominent columnist and editor. Among his most notable works are The Devil's Dictionary, a collection of sardonic definitions, and the short story "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," acclaimed for its innovative narrative structure and psychological depth.

In 1913, at the age of 71, Bierce traveled to Mexico during the Mexican Revolution. His last known communication was a letter dated December 26, 1913, from Chihuahua. After that, he vanished without a trace, and his fate remains one of American literature's enduring mysteries.

Trivia About Ambrose Bierce

• Bierce was often called "Bitter Bierce" due to his sharp, acerbic writing style.
• He was a contemporary and acquaintance of writers like Mark Twain and Bret Harte.
• Bierce's disappearance has inspired various theories and works of fiction, including Carlos Fuentes' novel The Old Gringo.
• He served as a major inspiration for later writers of horror and the supernatural, such as H.P. Lovecraft.

Famous Quotes by Ambrose Bierce

• "War is God's way of teaching Americans geography."
• "The covers of this book are too far apart."
• "In each human heart are a tiger, a pig, an ass, and a nightingale. Diversity of character is due to their unequal activity."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Ambrose Bierce?

Ambrose Bierce was an American writer, journalist, and Civil War veteran, renowned for his satirical wit and works like The Devil's Dictionary and "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge."

What is 'The Devil's Dictionary'?

The Devil's Dictionary is a satirical lexicon by Bierce, offering cynical and humorous definitions of English words, reflecting his sharp wit and critical view of society.

What happened to Ambrose Bierce?

In 1913, Bierce traveled to Mexico during the revolution and disappeared shortly thereafter. His ultimate fate remains unknown, making his end one of literature's great mysteries.

Related Literary Movements

Ambrose Bierce is associated with American Realism, particularly in his war stories that depict the brutal realities of conflict. His works also delve into supernatural and horror themes, influencing the development of weird fiction.

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