An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge

Ambrose Bierce

Overview

An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge is a short story by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1890. It is a classic of American literature, known for its intricate plot and exploration of themes such as fate, time, and the nature of reality. The story follows Peyton Farquhar, a Confederate sympathizer during the American Civil War, who is captured and sentenced to be hanged. The narrative masterfully blurs the lines between reality and illusion as Farquhar experiences a vivid, distorted perception of time and escape in the moments leading up to his execution. Bierce's masterful use of unreliable narration and psychological depth makes this a compelling and enduring work.

Who it's for

• Readers interested in classic American short fiction.
• Those who appreciate psychological narratives and explorations of time.
• Students of Civil War literature.
• Fans of Ambrose Bierce's distinctive writing style.

Key features

• Language: English
• Format: Short Story