The Collected Works of Ambrose Bierce, Volume 1   By: Ambrose Bierce (1842-1914?)

This collection of works by Ambrose Bierce showcases his sharp wit, dark humor, and keen insight into human nature. Bierce's stories and essays explore themes of war, death, and the supernatural, with a writing style that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The volume includes some of Bierce's most famous works, such as "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge" and "The Devil's Dictionary," as well as lesser-known pieces that are equally captivating. Overall, this collection offers a comprehensive look at the work of a masterful writer whose stories continue to resonate with readers today.

First Page:

Of the many causes that conspired to bring about the lamentable failure of "self government" in ancient America the most general and comprehensive was, of course, the impracticable nature of the system itself. In the light of modern culture, and instructed by history, we readily discern the folly of those crude ideas upon which the ancient Americans based what they knew as "republican institutions," and maintained, as long as maintenance was possible, with something of a religious fervor, even when the results were visibly disastrous... Continue reading book >>