Explore the complexities of the human psyche and the enigmatic depths of existence in this introspective collection of essays and poems. Ambrose Bierce's poetry is ripe with his cynically pessimistic mindset and satiric wit, contemplating the nature of truth and illusion and challenging readers to confront their perceptions of reality and self. Shapes of Clay is Bierce's second collection of poems. AMBROSE BIERCE [1842-1914] was an American author, journalist, and war veteran. He was one of the most influential journalists in the United States in the late 19th century and alongside his success as a horror writer he was hailed as a pioneer of realism. Among his most famous works are The Devil's Dictionary and the short story »An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.«