The Aesthetes by Ambrose Bierce
The Aesthetes by Ambrose Bierce is a short story that explores the themes of art, beauty, and the excesses of the wealthy elite in the late 19th century. The story follows a group of wealthy patrons who gather at an exclusive salon to admire and discuss the latest works of art. However, as they become more and more intoxicated, their appreciation for the art becomes increasingly distorted, leading to a series of absurd and comical events. The story is known for its satirical portrayal of the pretentiousness of the upper class and their obsession with art and beauty. Bierce uses irony and humor to critique the excesses of the wealthy and the way they use art as a means of justifying their own self-indulgence. Overall, The Aesthetes is a witty and biting commentary on the cultural elite and their love for art, which has stood the test of time and remains relevant today.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1897 · Genre: Satire, Surrealism, Short Stories · 129 words
First lines
The lily cranks, the lily cranks, The loppy, loony lasses! They multiply in rising ranks To execute their solemn pranks, They moon along in masses.
Blow, sweet lily, in the shade! O, Sunflower decorate the dado!
The maiden ass, the maiden ass, The tall and tailless jenny! In limp attire as green as grass, She stands, a monumental brass, The one of one too many.
Blow, sweet lily, in the shade! O, Sunflower decorate the dado!
What this Textopian page supports
The Aesthetes is listed on Textopian as an essay by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1897 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Surrealism, Short Stories, Psychological Fiction
- Length: 129 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Aesthetes by Ambrose Bierce
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Aesthetes?
- How does this essay by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Disinterested Arbiter by Ambrose Bierce
- Humility by Ambrose Bierce
- The Tables Turned by Ambrose Bierce
- Witches Loaves by O. Henry
- The Lottery Ticket by Anton Chekhov
- Genesis by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — Ambrose Bierce's works often use humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.
- Surrealism — Bierce's work often incorporates elements that defy logical explanation, blending dreamlike scenarios with stark reality.
- Short Stories — Bierce is well known for producing impactful and memorable short stories, a format that permits a tight, focused exploration of themes and characters.
- Psychological Fiction — Bierce's stories often delve into the mental and emotional states of his characters, exploring human nature and consciousness.
Tags
Dark Humor · Satire · Fiction · Short Story · Literary Fiction · Mystery · Detective Fiction · Gothic Fiction · Horror · Supernatural · Symbolism · Allegory