An Unfinished Race by Ambrose Bierce
"An Unfinished Race" is a short story by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1894. The story follows the journey of a man who, after dying in a horse riding accident, finds himself in a strange and unfamiliar place. He soon realizes that he has been transported to a race track, where he is forced to participate in an unfinished race alongside other deceased individuals. Despite his initial reluctance, the man becomes invested in the race and pushes himself to his limits in order to win. However, as the race progresses, he begins to question the nature of the competition and the true purpose of his participation. Ultimately, the story raises questions about the afterlife and the nature of existence, leaving the reader with a sense of mystery and intrigue.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1872 · Genre: Short Stories, Classics, Science Fiction · 414 words
First lines
JAMES BURNE WORSON was a shoemaker who lived in Leamington, Warwickshire, England. He had a little shop in one of the by-ways leading off the road to Warwick. In his humble sphere he was esteemed an honest man, although like many of his class in English towns he was somewhat addicted to drink. When in liquor he would make foolish wagers. On one of these too frequent occasions he was boasting of his prowess as a pedestrian and athlete, and the outcome was a match against nature. For a stake of one sovereign he undertook to run all the way to Coventry and back, a distance of something more than forty miles. This was on the 3d day of September in 1873. He set out at once, the man with whom he had made the bet-whose name is not remembered-accompanied by Barham Wise, a linen draper, and Hamerson Burns, a photographer, I think, following in a light cart or wagon.
What this Textopian page supports
An Unfinished Race is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1872 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: 1872 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Short Stories, Classics, Science Fiction, Satire, Horror
- Length: 414 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Confusing
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Genres
- Short Stories — The book is a collection of short stories penned by Ambrose Bierce.
- Classics — The work of Ambrose Bierce is considered classic literature.
- Science Fiction — The story has elements of what could be considered early science fiction, as it explores unusual phenomena.
- Satire — Bierce is known for his satirical style and biting social commentary.
Tags
gothic fiction · horror · supernatural · mystery · thriller · suspense · literary fiction · american literature · classic · 19th century literature · short stories · anthology