Technique of Foreshadowing in Bierce’s An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge Essay Example
Ambrose Bierce employs the literary technique of foreshadowing skillfully in An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge, providing the reader with a constant suggestion that Peyton Farquhar will ultimately succumb to death. I find the subtler instances of foreshadowing more effective in conveying the writer’s skill. For instance, the repeated references to Farquhar’s neck throughout the narrative suggest premonition; "His neck ached terribly" (Paragraph 18) and "his neck was in agony..." (Paragraph 35). Although it is not until the end of the story that we learn our protagonist never escapes from the bridge, foreshadowing provides readers with hints about his fate beforehand. Foreshadowing is an intriguing literary tool as it compels readers to undertake a careful reading and keeps them guessing until the culmination of the story. Many readers question whether Fa
...rquhar is already dead throughout until the end, making it intriguing. Even overt forms of foreshadowing can prove to be a stimulating tool. In Part III, the narrator states that "[Peyton] fell...through the bridge, he lost consciousness and was as one already dead" (Paragraph 17). The text reveals he is already dead, yet this does not matter to the reader.The reader is curious about Farquhar's flight and journey. The fantastic elements are often unbelievable, as shown during Farquhar's flight. This use of foreshadowing lets the reader understand that the charming adventure is not really occurring, and in actuality, Farquhar is hanging dead from the bridge. Farquhar's statement, "It is as easy to dodge a fusillade as a single shot" (paragraph 26), is pitiable. Ultimately, the story is improved by skillful employment of foreshadowing and is an enjoyable read.
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