Incurable by Ambrose Bierce (1891)
INCURABLE is a short story written by Ambrose Bierce in 1893. The story follows the life of a man named John Horton, who is diagnosed with a terminal illness and given only a few months to live. Despite his condition, Horton remains optimistic and determined to make the most of the time he has left. He spends his days reading, writing, and enjoying the company of his loved ones. As Horton's health begins to decline, he becomes increasingly preoccupied with the concept of death and the afterlife. He struggles to come to terms with the idea of leaving behind his friends and family, and he becomes obsessed with the possibility of an afterlife. Despite his fears and doubts, Horton remains determined to live life to the fullest until the very end. Throughout the story, Bierce explores themes of mortality, morbidity, and the human desire for meaning and purpose in the face of death. INCURABLE is a powerful and thought-provoking tale that continues to resonate with readers today.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1891 · Genre: Satire, Dark humor, Short stories · 97 words
First lines
From pride, joy, hate, greed, melancholy -- From any kind of vice, or folly, Bias, propensity or passion That is in prevalence and fashion, Save one, the sufferer or lover May, by the grace of God, recover: Alone that spiritual tetter, The zeal to make creation better, Glows still immedicably warmer.
Who knows of a reformed reformer?
What this Textopian page supports
Incurable is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1891 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: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Dark humor, Short stories, Social criticism, Horror
- Length: 97 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
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- Work identity for Incurable by Ambrose Bierce
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Discussion starters
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- How does this short story by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Satire — Bierce is known for his biting wit and satire. In this book, he uses these tools to expose human weaknesses and follies.
- Dark humor — This book is filled with Bierce's trademark dark humor, using laughter to illuminate the darker aspects of human nature.
- Short stories — This book is a collection of short stories, each showcasing Bierce's sharp commentary and cynical viewpoint.
- Social criticism — Bierce uses mockery and irony to critique society and social norms in his tales.
Tags
gothic · horror · supernatural · mystery · thriller · suspense · fiction · literary · classic · american · 19th century · short stories