Can Such Things Be?

Name: Can Such Things Be?
Author: Ambrose Bierce

By Ambrose Bierce

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American Literature Science-Fiction & Fantasy Short Stories

About This Book

A series of short tales of the macabre and uncanny that depict spectral returns, mysterious deaths, vanishings, and hallucinations. The narratives use varied forms—framed testimonies, first-person statements, and reported accounts—and move between different settings to probe perception, memory, and the porous boundary between life and afterlife. Recurring motifs include ambiguous evidence, altered identities, and unreliable witnesses, producing sustained unease and skeptical inquiry rather than clear resolution.

About the Author

Ambrose Bierce

Ambrose Bierce (1842-1914) was an American writer, journalist, and Civil War veteran, known for his sharp wit and cynical perspective on life. His most famous work, "An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge," is a poignant exploration of time and perception, often regarded as a classic of American literature. Bierce's writing spans various genres, including short stories, essays, and satirical pieces, with notable collections such as "Fantastic Fables" and "Can Such Things Be?" His unique style and dark humor have left a lasting impact on American literary heritage, making him a significant figure in the realm of 19th-century literature.