The Writer and the Tramps
The Writer and the Tramps is a short story by Ambrose Bierce, published in 1891. The story follows the journey of a writer who becomes lost in a forest while traveling to visit his friend. Along the way, he encounters a group of tramps who are also lost, and they band together to find their way back to civilization. The story explores themes of isolation, loneliness, and the human need for connection and community. Through the eyes of the writer, Bierce critiques the societal norms of his time, particularly the treatment of the working class and the marginalized. The story also showcases Bierce's signature wit and satire, as he pokes fun at the pretentiousness of the writer and the absurdity of the situation. Overall, The Writer and the Tramps is a thought-provoking and entertaining tale that highlights the importance of human connection in a world that can often feel isolating and unforgiving.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1891 · Genre: Satire, Short Stories, Historical Fiction · 96 words
First lines
An Ambitious Writer, distinguished for the condition of his linen, was travelling the high road to fame, when he met a Tramp.
"What is the matter with your shirt?" inquired the Tramp.
"It bears the marks of that superb unconcern which is the characteristic of genius," replied the Ambitious Writer, contemptuously passing him by.
Resting by the wayside a little later, the Tramp carved upon the smooth bark of a birch-tree the words, "John Gump, Champion Genius."
What this Textopian page supports
The Writer and the Tramps is listed on Textopian as a fable 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: Fable
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1891 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Satire, Short Stories, Historical Fiction, Social Commentary, Suspense
- Length: 96 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Writer and the Tramps 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 The Writer and the Tramps?
- How does this fable by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Satire first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Mendax by Ambrose Bierce
- His Fly Speck Majesty by Ambrose Bierce
- The Yearly Lie by Ambrose Bierce
- A Word To The Unwise by Ambrose Bierce
- Two Of The Pious by Ambrose Bierce
- To Day by Ambrose Bierce
Genres
- Satire — Based on Bierce's renowned style of humorous and biting criticism often addressing society and politics, the title implies a satirical tone in the relationship presented between a writer and the tramps.
- Short Stories — Bierce is known for his concise and often shocking short tales. The title suggests multiple characters and possible scenarios, fitting the short story genre.
- Historical Fiction — Bierce's writing style is known for reflecting the spirit and events of his times, making the historical fiction genre a potential fit.
- Social Commentary — The juxtaposition of 'writer' with 'tramps' could suggest commentary on socioeconomic differences, class struggles, or social inequality, themes often addressed by Bierce.
Tags
dark humor · satire · short story · literary fiction · American literature · gothic · supernatural · irony · parody · absurdity · surrealism · symbolism