To Nanine by Ambrose Bierce (1899)
The book "Nanine" by Ambrose Bierce is a short story that follows the life of its titular character, Nanine, from her childhood to her adulthood. The story explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time through Nanine's experiences. Here is a brief summary of the book: Nanine is born into a wealthy family in the mid-19th century. As a child, she is spoiled and indulged by her parents, but as she grows older, she begins to face the harsh realities of life. She falls in love with a man named Edgar, but their relationship is complicated by Nanine's family and social status. Despite these challenges, Nanine and Edgar remain devoted to each other until tragedy strikes, leaving Nanine alone and heartbroken. As the years pass, Nanine must come to terms with her loss and find a way to move forward. Through her experiences, Bierce explores the idea that life is full of ups and downs, but ultimately, it is the connections we make with others that give our lives meaning. I hope this summary helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
By Ambrose Bierce · First published 1899 · Genre: Short Stories, Historical Fiction, Satire · 157 words
First lines
Dear, if I never saw your face again; If all the music of your voice were mute As that of a forlorn and broken lute; If only in my dreams I might attain The benediction of your touch, how vain Were Faith to justify the old pursuit Of happiness, or Reason to confute The pessimist philosophy of pain.
Yet Love not altogether is unwise, For still the wind would murmur in the corn, And still the sun would splendor all the mere; And I -- I could not, dearest, choose but hear Your voice upon the breeze and see your eyes Shine in the glory of the summer morn.
What this Textopian page supports
To Nanine is listed on Textopian as an essay 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: Essay
- Author: Ambrose Bierce
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Short Stories, Historical Fiction, Satire
- Length: 157 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for To Nanine 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 To Nanine?
- How does this essay by Ambrose Bierce fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Short Stories first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Short Stories — As 'To Nanine' is a short work of fiction penned by Ambrose Bierce, it fits within the category of short stories.
- Historical Fiction — Bierce's work often incorporates historical contexts and events, making historical fiction a fitting genre.
- Satire — Bierce's writing style is often noted for its satirical elements, including irony, wit, and sarcasm.
Tags
gothic fiction · horror · supernatural · mystery · thriller · suspense · psychological · literary fiction · american literature · 19th century literature · short stories · collection