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A Horseman in the Sky cover art

A Horseman in the Sky

By: Ambrose Bierce
Narrated by: Walter Zimmerman
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Editor reviews

Walter Zimmerman’s somber yet expressive voice complements “A Horseman in the Sky”, a short story by Ambrose Bierce that is set during the American Civil War. Protagonist Carter Druse, an only child born to wealthy parents in Western Virginia, joins a Union regiment against his father’s wishes. One afternoon, he falls asleep at his post in a clump of laurel and wakes to see an enemy solider sitting upon a horse. For a moment, Druse is unable to fire, but quickly finds the courage to submit to duty. This tale makes clear the devastating impact of the war upon families.

Summary

A sentry falls asleep at his post, leading to dire consequences. This is a classic tale about the terrible cost of the Civil War, which divided entire families.
©1979 Jimcin Recordings (P)1979 Jimcin Recordings

Critic reviews

"Reminiscent of Poe's tales of horror and marked by an ingenious use of the surprise ending, a sardonic humor, and a realistic study of tense emotional states." ( The Concise Oxford Companion to American Literature)

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