Plot and Structure: An Occurrence At Owl Creek Bridge

     Centered around the murder of a Mr. Peyton Fahrquhar, An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge intrigues readers by vividly telling the story of how an innocent man’s life is brought to an abrupt halt. Ambrose Bierce, the author, describes in detail the scenario at hand from the beginning of the story. Through the use of symbolism throughout the plot the author is able to convey deeper meanings than what is read in the general context. For example, Owl Creek Bridge represents far more than just a normal bridge, rather representing a separation between the North and the South, but also the line between life and death. Also, when Bierce wrote of the ticking watch, it was symbolic of time, and how it was running out. Through the use of symbolism the author is able to emotionally attach the reader to the character, and ultimately build up to the most intense part of the story. The author takes the reader on a thrill unlike any other, as readers are drawn to the text; while reading about the struggles Mr. Fahrquhar goes through to save himself. Vivid details are used to create a picture in the readers head, almost as if they were seeing and experiencing every minute detail for themselves. As the journey to make it out of the water draws to an end, the climax is ending as well. Finally, the man has made it out of the water, and is heading to towards the woods. They appear as a safe haven, keeping the character separated from his kidnappers. Imagery plays a key role throughout the entire story, but is essential in establishing the connection with the readers. Finally, as the story draws to an end, Mr. Fahrquhar reaches his home to his life and family. Only to die in the arms of the woman he loved. To the disappointment of the reader, the poor lad never made it home. Rather he hung from Owl Creek Bridge. The entire reason for his death was simply because he wished to be something bigger and “better” than he was.