Ambrose Bierce
Ambrose Gwinnett Bierce (born June 24, 1842; died sometime after December 26, 1913) was an American editorialist, journalist, short story writer, fabulist, and satirist. Today, he is probably best known for his short story "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and his satirical lexicon The Devil's Dictionary. His vehemence as a critic, his motto "Nothing matters" and the sardonic view of human nature that informed his work all earned him the nickname "Bitter Bierce".
Despite his reputation as a searing critic, Bierce was known to encourage younger writers, including poet George Sterling and fiction writer W. C. Morrow. Bierce employed a distinctive style of writing, especially in his stories. His style often embraces an abrupt beginning, dark imagery, vague references to time, limited descriptions, impossible events and the theme of war.
In 1913, Bierce traveled to Mexico to gain first-hand experience of the Mexican Revolution. While traveling with rebel troops, he disappeared without a trace.
Read more about Ambrose Bierce: Early Life, Military Career, Personal Life, Journalism, Literary Works, Disappearance, Legacy and Influence
Famous quotes by ambrose bierce:
“Optimism. The doctrine or belief that everything is beautiful, including what is ugly.”
—Ambrose Bierce (1842–1914)
“Compromise. Such an adjustment of conflicting interests as gives each adversary the satisfaction of thinking he has got what he ought not to have, and is deprived of nothing except what was justly his due.”
—Ambrose Bierce (1842–1914)
“Consul. In American politics, a person who having failed to secure an office from the people is given one by the Administration on condition that he leave the country.”
—Ambrose Bierce (1842–1914)
“Trial. A formal inquiry designed to prove and put upon record the blameless characters of judges, advocates and jurors.”
—Ambrose Bierce (1842–1914)
“Admiral. That part of a warship which does the talking while the figurehead does the thinking.”
—Ambrose Bierce (1842–1914)