A Voluptuary by Ambrose Bierce

Name: A Voluptuary
Author: Ambrose Bierce

"A Voluptuary" is a short story written by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1893. The story follows the life of a man named Marcus, who is obsessed with indulging his every whim and desire, no matter how extravagant or excessive. Despite his wealth and privilege, Marcus is deeply unhappy and feels unfulfilled, leading him to seek out new experiences and pleasures in an attempt to find meaning and satisfaction in life. Through the character of Marcus, Bierce explores themes of materialism, hedonism, and the search for purpose and fulfillment.

By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1878 · Genre: Fiction, Drama, Historical · 169 words

First lines

Who's this that lispeth in the thickening throng Which crowds to claim distinction in my song? Fresh from "the palms and temples of the South," The mixed aromas quarrel in his mouth: Of orange blossoms this the lingering gale, And that the odor of a spicy tale.

Sir, in thy pleasure-dome down by the sea (No finer one did Kubla Khan decree) Where, Master of the Revels, thou dost stand With joys and mysteries on either hand, Dost keep a poet to report the rites And sing the tale of those Elysian nights? Faith, sir, I'd like the place if not too young.

I'm no great bard, but -- I can hold my tongue.

What this Textopian page supports

A Voluptuary is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1878 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: 1878 CE
Language: English
Genres: Fiction, Drama, Historical, Romance
Length: 169 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for A Voluptuary by Ambrose Bierce
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering A Voluptuary?
How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Fiction — As an author, Ambrose Bierce is recognized for his fictitious work. Therefore, it is safe to assume that 'A VOLUPTUARY' falls under this category.
Drama — If the title 'A VOLUPTUARY' is any indication of the book's content, one can infer it potentially encompasses drama or intense interpersonal relationships and character development.
Historical — Considering that Bierce's writing quite often tends to draw upon historical contexts or settings, it is plausible that the book 'A VOLUPTUARY' may contain historical elements.
Romance — The term 'voluptuary' often denotes a person devoted to luxury and sensual pleasure, implying the potential for romantic and sensual themes to be present in the novel.