Fate by Ambrose Bierce (1899)
Fate is a short story written by Ambrose Bierce in 1899. The narrative follows the life of a man named John H. Money, who is obsessed with his own fate and the idea that he is predestined to meet his doom. Throughout the story, Money encounters various people and events that reinforce his belief in fate, ultimately leading him to his demise. The story explores themes of determinism, free will, and the human struggle to understand the nature of life. Bierce's use of irony and symbolism adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it a thought-provoking and unsettling read. Overall, "Fate" is a haunting tale that raises questions about the nature of fate and the human condition. It is a classic example of Bierce's masterful storytelling and his ability to craft tales that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1899 · Genre: Short Stories, Adventure, Fiction · 153 words
First lines
Alas, alas, for the tourist's guide! -- He turned from the beaten trail aside, Wandered bewildered, lay down and died.
O grim is the Irony of Fate: It switches the man of low estate And loosens the dogs upon the great.
It lights the fireman to roast the cook; The fisherman squirms upon the hook, And the flirt is slain with a tender look.
The undertaker it overtakes; It saddles the cavalier, and makes The haughtiest butcher into steaks.
What this Textopian page supports
Fate is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1899 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: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Short Stories, Adventure, Fiction
- Length: 153 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- Vice Versa by Ambrose Bierce
- Beyond The Wall by Ambrose Bierce
- Contemplation by Ambrose Bierce
- The Two Cavees by Ambrose Bierce
- The Hypnotist by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Short Stories — This piece is a concise narrative with the complete development of a singular event
- Adventure — The story involves the character on a journey where they face perilous situations
- Fiction — As the story is the invented imagination of the author, it falls into the Fiction genre
Tags
gothic · horror · supernatural · mystery · thriller · fantasy · paranormal · suspense · literary fiction · classic · american literature · short stories