Fame by Ambrose Bierce (1898)
FAME is a novella written by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1898. The story follows a man named Edwin Bransom, who has achieved great success and fame as a writer, but finds himself struggling with the emptiness and superficiality of his life. As he reflects on his past and present, Bransom realizes that his pursuit of fame has come at the cost of true happiness and fulfillment. The novella explores themes of identity, morality, and the fleeting nature of success.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1898 · Genre: Satire, Short Stories, Historical Fiction · 148 words
First lines
He held a book in his knotty paws, And its title grand read he: "The Chronicles of the Kings" it was, By the History Companee. "I'm a monarch," he said (But a tear he shed) "And my picter here you see.
"Great and lasting is my renown, However the wits may flout -- As wide almost as this blessed town" (But he winced as if with gout). "I paid 'em like sin For to put me in, But it's O, and O, to be out!"
What this Textopian page supports
Fame is listed on Textopian as an essay 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: Essay
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Short Stories, Historical Fiction, Humor
- Length: 148 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Fame by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Fame?
- How does this essay by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Unchanged Diplomatist by Ambrose Bierce
- Genesis by Ambrose Bierce
- Authority by Ambrose Bierce
- The Man Of Principle by Ambrose Bierce
- Dead Mans Plack by Bernard Capes
Genres
- Satire — Ambrose Bierce is known for his biting wit and satirical style, and this work is no different. Through 'Fame', Bierce comments on the nature of fame and the public's obsession with it through his unique satirical lens.
- Short Stories — Like many of Bierce's works, 'Fame' is a short narrative that encapsulates a complete story in a few pages. This format allows Bierce to present his ideas and commentary in an easily digestible and accessible format.
- Historical Fiction — While not as dominant as other genres, 'Fame' does have elements of historical fiction. It is set in a specific historical time period and includes references to real historical events and figures.
- Humor — Elements of humor are present in 'Fame'. Bierce's satirical style often includes comedic elements, making his social commentary more palatable and engaging for readers.
Tags
Drama · Fiction · Literary Fiction · Mystery · Suspense · Thriller · Gothic · Horror · Supernatural · Psychological Thriller · Mental Illness · Revenge