An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge

by

Ambrose Bierce

An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge Symbols

The Ticking Watch

As Farquhar awaits his execution, he begins to hear “a sharp, distinct, metallic percussion like the stroke of a blacksmith's hammer upon the anvil,” which heightens his anxiety and draws out the moments before his…

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Farquhar’s Family

Farquhar’s wife and children lie beyond the enemy lines, and as the soldiers prepare for his execution, he wonders feverishly if he might be able to escape. He thinks, “My home, thank God, is…

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