Ambrose Bierce

The sardonic view of human nature that informed his work – along with his vehemence as a critic – earned him the nickname “Bitter Bierce.” Despite his reputation as a searing critic, however, Bierce was known to encourage younger writers, including poet George Sterling and fiction writer W. C. Morrow. He is known for his distinctive style of writing, which his stories often share. This includes a cold open, use of dark imagery, vague references to time, limited description, war-themed pieces and use of impossible events.

A man after my own cold heart.