To My Liars by Ambrose Bierce (1894)

Name: To My Liars
Author: Ambrose Bierce

TO MY LIARS, by Ambrose Bierce, is a short story that explores the themes of truthfulness and deception. The narrator, a man who has been deceived by his wife, seeks revenge by writing a letter to her, pretending to be someone else. He then mails the letter, only to realize too late that he has made a grave mistake. The story is a commentary on the dangers of lying and the importance of honesty in relationships. Bierce's use of irony and satire adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it both thought-provoking and entertaining. In terms of literary devices, Bierce employs foreshadowing, symbolism, and character development to create a rich and engaging reading experience. The story's concise and direct language also adds to its impact, leaving the reader with a lasting impression long after they finish reading.

By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1894 · Genre: Satire, Fiction, Philosophical · 833 words

First lines

Attend, mine enemies of all degrees, / From sandlot orators and sandlot fleas / To fallen gentlemen and rising louts / Who babble slander at your drinking bouts, / And, filled with unfamiliar wine, begin / Lies drowned, ere born, in more congenial gin.

But most attend, ye persons of the press / Who live (though why, yourselves alone can guess) / In hope deferred, ambitious still to shine / By hating me at half a cent a line -- / Like drones among the bees of brighter wing, / Sunless to shine and impotent to sting.

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To My Liars is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ambrose Bierce, dated 1894 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Ambrose Bierce
Date: 1894 CE
Language: English
Genres: Satire, Fiction, Philosophical, Psychological
Length: 833 words
Structure: 1 section, 19 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Satire — As author Ambrose Bierce was lauded for his witty criticism of society and human nature, the book 'TO MY LIARS' may contain strong elements of satire.
Fiction — Bierce's works fit comfortably within the fiction genre, with this book likely employing fictional storytelling to elucidate themes and ideas.
Philosophical — The book title 'TO MY LIARS' suggests a focus on human behavior and morality, aligning it with the philosophical genre.
Psychological — Bierce's works often explore the psychological dimensions of characters, suggesting that this book might include psychological exploration and themes.