The Land Beyond the Blow

"The Land Beyond the Blow" is a collection of terse short stories and personal reminiscences by the great satirist, Ambrose Bierce. Contents: Thither Sons of the Fair Star An Interview with Gnarmag-Zote The Tamtonians Marooned on Ug The Dog in Ganegwag A Conflagration in Ghargaroo An Execution in Batrugia The Jumjum of Gokeetle-Guk The Kingdom of Tortirra Hither Ambrose Bierce (1842-1913) wrote the short story «An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge» and compiled a satirical lexicon The Devil's Dictionary. His vehemence as a critic, his motto «Nothing matters», and the sardonic view of human nature that informed his work, all earned him the nickname «Bitter Bierce». Despite his reputation as a searing critic, Bierce was known to encourage younger writers, including poet George Sterling and fiction writer W. C. Morrow. Bierce employed a distinctive style of writing, especially in his stories. His style often embraces an abrupt beginning, dark imagery, vague references to time, limited descriptions, impossible events and the theme of war.