A Prayer by Ambrose Bierce (1898)
A PRAYER by Ambrose Bierce is a short story that explores the themes of mortality, spirituality, and the human condition. The narrator, an old man, reflects on his own death and the fleeting nature of life, expressing a sense of resignation and acceptance. Here is a brief summary of the book: A PRAYER by Ambrose Bierce is a haunting tale that delves into the human experience of facing one's own mortality. The narrator, an elderly man, sits in his armchair, lost in thought as he contemplates his own death and the brevity of life. With a somber tone, the narrator reflects on the futility of life and the inevitability of death, expressing a sense of resignation and acceptance. I hope this summary helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1898 · Genre: Horror, Psychological Thriller, Gothic Fiction · 87 words
First lines
Sweet Spirit of Cesspool, hear a mother's prayer: Her terrors pacify and offspring spare! Upon Silurians alone let fall (And God in Heaven have mercy on them all!) The red revenges of your fragrant breath, Hot with the flames invisible of death.
Sing in each nose a melody of smells, And lead them snoutwise to their several hells!
What this Textopian page supports
A Prayer is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1898 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: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Horror, Psychological Thriller, Gothic Fiction, Short Story, Classic Literature
- Length: 87 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Prayer by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Prayer?
- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Horror first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Horror — The book features atmospheric tension, an unsettling environment and unexpected twists, which are characteristic of horror novels.
- Psychological Thriller — The book delves into the psychological states and motives of the characters, creating suspense and anticipation.
- Gothic Fiction — The book makes use of supernatural elements in an ominous setting, which is often seen in Gothic fiction.
- Short Story — The book is a brief work of fiction, encompassing less complex plot points than a full-scale novel.
Tags
horror · gothic · supernatural · religion · spirituality · fiction · short story · literary fiction · classic · american literature · 19th century literature · symbolism