Horror Stories

Ambrose Bierce (1842–circa 1914) was an American short story writer, journalist, poet, and Civil War veteran, known for his satirical wit and cynical style. Born in Ohio, he served as a Union soldier during the Civil War, an experience that deeply influenced his writing, particularly his acclaimed short stories about war, such as An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge. Bierce was also known for The Devil’s Dictionary, a satirical lexicon that humorously redefined common words with biting sarcasm. In 1913, he mysteriously disappeared while travelling in Mexico during the Mexican Revolution, and his fate remains unknown.

Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849) was an American writer, poet, and literary critic best known for his macabre and gothic tales. Born in Boston, Poe was orphaned at a young age and raised by John and Frances Allan in Richmond, Virginia. He is credited with pioneering the modern detective story and contributing significantly to the horror and science fiction genres. His notable works include The Tell-Tale Heart, The Fall of the House of Usher, and the poem The Raven, which brought him national fame. Poe’s life was marked by personal struggles, financial difficulties, and the loss of loved ones, influencing his dark and haunting storytelling style. He died under mysterious circumstances in Baltimore at the age of 40.