One and One Are Two
ONE AND ONE ARE TWO is a short story written by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1891. The story follows the narrator's attempt to solve a mathematical puzzle that he has been presented with. Despite his best efforts, the narrator finds himself unable to arrive at the correct answer, highlighting the limitations of human understanding and the complexity of mathematics. Through this tale, Bierce explores themes of logic, reason, and the limits of human knowledge.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1899 · Genre: Satire, Fiction, Philosophy · 266 words
First lines
The trumpet sounded and the dead Came forth from earth and ocean, And Pickering arose and sped Aloft with wobbling motion.
"What makes him fly lop-sided?" cried A soul of the elected. "One ear was wax," a rogue replied, "And isn't resurrected."
Below him on the pitted plain, By his abandoned hollow, His hair and teeth tried all in vain The rest of him to follow.
Saint Peter, seeing him ascend, Came forward to the wicket, And said: "My mutilated friend, I'll thank you for your ticket."
What this Textopian page supports
One and One Are Two 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: Satire, Fiction, Philosophy
- Length: 266 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for One and One Are Two 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 One and One Are Two?
- 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
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- A Forfeited Right by Ambrose Bierce
- An Inflated Ambition by Ambrose Bierce
- The Yearly Lie by Ambrose Bierce
- One Of The Unfair Sex by Ambrose Bierce
- Art by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — Ambrose Bierce is known for his satirical writing and this book is no exception with its criticism and humor
- Fiction — This book is presented in a fictional setting and uses fabricated characters and events
- Philosophy — The book delves into philosophical issues and ideas, offering a potential area of exploration for readers interested in philosophy
Tags
short story · fiction · literature · classic · American · gothic · horror · supernatural · mystery · thriller · psychological · symbolism