Ambrose Bierce

The Shadow on the Dial and Other Essays Ambrose Bierce

"Bierce will remain an equivocal figure in American and world literature chiefly because his dark view of humanity is, by its very nature, unpopular."S. T. JoshiWhat needs to be said about Ambrose Bierce, that isn't said before?
A prolific and versatile writer, Ambrose Bierce (1842-1914) was regarded as one of the most influential journalists in the United States, His dark, sardonic and satirical views and vehemence as a critic earned him the nickname, "Bitter Bierce. " Perhaps his experiences as an Union soldier during the Civil War, thus witnessing combat, violence and the horror of war firsthand, has something to do with that. Such was his reputation that it was said his judgment on any piece of prose or poetry could make or break a writer's career. His short stories are considered among the best of the 19th century. This beautiful collection of essays cover a wide range of subjects, embracing among other things government, dreams, death, writers of dialect, crime, women and dogs, and always the author's point of view is fresh, original and non-Philistine. He delivers his opinions in his trademark wry and dry writing style, that we come to love so much from him. Whether one cares to agree with him or not, everybody will find vast entertainment in his wit that illuminates with lightning flashes all he touches. And if you don't like it, than: "There is the door!" Notoir Books is a publisher of high quality books on topics of esoteric interests, eccentric memoirs, overlooked history and distinctive voices. More can be found at their website notoirbooks.com.