A Man by Ambrose Bierce (1890)

Name: A Man
Author: Ambrose Bierce

"A MAN" is a short story written by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1890. The story follows the life of an unnamed protagonist who is described as a man of average stature and features. He leads a mundane existence as a clerk in a government office, spending his days filing papers and attending to routine tasks. Despite his seemingly ordinary life, the protagonist harbors a deep sense of dissatisfaction and longing for something more. One day, while out for a walk, the protagonist comes across a strange old man who offers him a mysterious potion. The potion is said to grant the drinker immense power and knowledge, but at a terrible cost. The protagonist is initially hesitant, but eventually decides to take the potion in the hopes of finding a more fulfilling life. As he drinks the potion, the protagonist begins to experience strange visions and sensations, including the ability to see into the future and control the actions of others. However, these powers come at a terrible cost, as the protagonist becomes increasingly isolated and disconnected from reality. In the end, the protagonist is left alone, struggling to reconcile his newfound abilities with his own identity and purpose in life. Throughout the story, Bierce explores themes of identity, power, and the human condition. The protagonist's quest for a more fulfilling life serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of seeking power and control over others, and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in one's own life.

By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1890 · Genre: Short Stories, Satire, Literary Fiction · 733 words

First lines

Pennoyer, Governor of Oregon, Casting to South his eye across the bourne Of his dominion (where the Palmiped, With leathers 'twixt his toes, paddles his marsh, Amphibious) saw a rising cloud of hats, And heard a faint, far sound of distant cheers Below the swell of the horizon. "Lo," Cried one, "the President! the President!" All footed webwise then took up the word -- The hill tribes and the tribes lacustrine and The folk riparian and littoral, Cried with one voice: "The President! He comes!" And some there were who flung their headgear up In emulation of the Southern mob; While some, more soberly disposed, stood still And silently had fits; and others made Such reverent genuflexions as they could, Having that climate in their bones.

What this Textopian page supports

A Man is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1890 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Ambrose Bierce
Date: 1890 CE
Language: English
Genres: Short Stories, Satire, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, War Stories
Length: 733 words
Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Genres

Short Stories — The story falls under this category as it is quite succinct and unfolds quickly.
Satire — Bierce often uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to critique society and human nature.
Literary Fiction — The story has a focus on character development and considers human emotions and experiences more deeply than most genre fiction.
Historical Fiction — The story is set in a specific historical period and includes realistic historical details.