Posterity's Award by Ambrose Bierce

Name: Posterity's Award
Author: Ambrose Bierce

POSTERITY'S AWARD is a short story written by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1890. The story follows the character of Posterity, who is awarded a prize for his literary achievements. However, upon receiving the award, Posterity realizes that he has lost touch with reality and is unable to recall any of his past works or experiences. The story explores themes of memory, identity, and the fleeting nature of artistic accomplishment.

By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1903 · Genre: Speculative Fiction, Satire, Horror · 561 words

First lines

I'd long been dead, but I returned to earth.

Some small affairs posterity was making A mess of, and I came to see that worth Received its dues. I'd hardly finished waking, The grave-mould still upon me, when my eye Perceived a statue standing straight and high.

What this Textopian page supports

Posterity's Award is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1903 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: 1903 CE
Language: English
Genres: Speculative Fiction, Satire, Horror, Short Stories
Length: 561 words
Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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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 Speculative Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Speculative Fiction — Ambrose Bierce is commonly known for his speculative fiction - stories that explore alternative realities or futures, often drawing on elements of science fiction, fantasy, and horror.
Satire — Bierce's work often includes a satirical view of society and human nature, which can be seen in 'POSTERITY'S AWARD'.
Horror — Bierce's writing is often characterized by a sense of dread and impending doom, which are typical characteristics of the horror genre.
Short Stories — Bierce was noted for writing succinct and tightly structured pieces which could categorize this work as a part of the short stories genre.