Ambrose Bierce 
Cobwebs from an Empty Skull 

Ambrose Bierce’s ‘Cobwebs from an Empty Skull’ is a collection of witty and satirical short stories that explore various aspects of human nature and society. Written in Bierce’s distinctive style, known for its sharp wit and biting humor, these stories provide a glimpse into the absurdity of life and the follies of mankind. Bierce’s literary context as a master of dark humor and social commentary is evident in this collection, where he cleverly exposes the hypocrisies and pretensions of his time. The stories are filled with ironic twists and unexpected endings, keeping readers engaged and entertained throughout. Ambrose Bierce, a seasoned journalist and sharp-tongued critic, drew inspiration from his own experiences as a soldier during the Civil War and his observations of human behavior. His cynical view of the world and his keen eye for detail are reflected in the stories found in ‘Cobwebs from an Empty Skull’. Bierce’s unapologetic honesty and fearless critique of society make this collection a timeless and thought-provoking read. I highly recommend ‘Cobwebs from an Empty Skull’ to readers who enjoy dark humor, satire, and social commentary. Bierce’s unique literary voice and keen insight into human nature make this collection a must-read for those who appreciate clever storytelling with a sardonic edge.

About the author

Ambrose Bierce, born on June 24, 1842, in Meigs County, Ohio, was an American short story writer, journalist, poet, and Civil War veteran. Bierce’s work is characterized by his sardonic view of human nature and his caustic wit. His writing style often featured macabre themes, a direct consequence of his personal experiences in the Civil War, which deeply influenced his worldview and literary voice. His most famous work is the short story collection ‘Tales of Soldiers and Civilians’ (1891), which includes the renowned story ‘An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.’ Bierce’s book ‘Cobwebs from an Empty Skull, ‘ published in 1874, showcases a collection of fables and satires, demonstrating his penchant for the grotesque and a grimly humorous take on mortality and folly. Known also for ‘The Devil’s Dictionary’ (1906), a satirical lexicon providing cynical redefinitions of English words, Bierce earned a reputation as ‘Bitter Bierce, ‘ emblematic of his biting commentary on human nature and society. Despite his prolific writing career, details of his final years are shrouded in mystery. Bierce disappeared in Mexico in 1914 while accompanying Pancho Villa’s army, and his ultimate fate remains unknown. Through his literary legacy, Ambrose Bierce remains an influential figure in American literature, recognized for his contribution to the horror genre and his distinctive, darkly humorous style.