For Mayor by Ambrose Bierce (1874)
A satirical tale of a small town's mayor who becomes obsessed with his power and authority, leading to his downfall.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1874 · Genre: Satire, Political Fiction, Short Story · 166 words
First lines
O Abner Doble -- whose "catarrhal name" Budd of that ilk might envy -- 'tis a rough Rude thing to say, but it is plain enough Your name is to be sneezed at: its acclaim Will "fill the speaking trump of future fame" With an impeded utterance -- a puff Suggesting that a pinch or two of snuff Would clear the tube and somewhat disinflame.
Nay, Abner Doble, you'll not get from me My voice and influence: I'll cheer instead, Some other man; for when my voice ascends a Tall pinnacle of praise, and at high C Sustains a chosen name, it shan't be said My influence is naught but influenza.
What this Textopian page supports
For Mayor is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1874 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: 1874 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Political Fiction, Short Story
- Length: 166 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for For Mayor 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 For Mayor?
- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The American Party by Ambrose Bierce
- The Shafter Shafted by Ambrose Bierce
- Two Politicians by Ambrose Bierce
- The Yearly Lie by Ambrose Bierce
- The Politicians And The Plunder by Ambrose Bierce
- The Ineffective Rooter by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — Bierce is known for his satirical and sardonic portrayal of people and society, which is evident in 'For Mayor'.
- Political Fiction — The book involves a man running for the position of mayor, which inherently involves political elements and themes.
- Short Story — 'For Mayor' is a brief work that focuses on a succinct narrative, identifying it as a short story.
Tags
political satire · fiction · humor · short story · American literature · government · leadership · power · corruption · irony · sarcasm · social commentary