“A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

“A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce, first published in 1902 in the collection The Complete Works of Ambrose Bierce, shows his grip on writing supernatural and horror genres. The story presents an eerie and suspenseful tale of a man who encounters a mysterious and terrifying apparition while walking in the countryside. It includes descriptions of the setting and the apparition coupled with irony and foreshadowing to build tension and surprise. Concise and direct prose, combined with its clever use of literary devices, makes it a compelling and unsettling read.

Main Events in “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

1. Introduction of Mr. William Holt: Wealthy Chicago manufacturer, living temporarily in central New York, separated from his wife for a year due to undisclosed reasons.
2. Evening Stroll: Holt, preoccupied with reflections on his troubled marriage, takes a walk in the countryside, oblivious to time and direction.
3. Realization of being Lost: Eventually, Holt realizes he’s lost but remains calm, knowing central New York isn’t perilous.
4. Unusual Illumination: Holt notices a soft red glow, initially assuming it’s the moon rising, but realizes the light is coming from behind him, despite his shadow being cast in front.
5. Mysterious Light: Holt, perplexed, tests the intensity of the light with his watch, which reads 11:25 PM. Suddenly, the light intensifies, illuminating the entire sky.
6. Apparition of Wife and Child: In the intense light, Holt sees the apparition of his wife holding their child, both clad in night-clothing, with his wife’s gaze fixed on him in an otherworldly manner.
7. Vanishing Apparition: The bright flare fades, leaving Holt in relative darkness. He notices the apparition of his wife showed only the upper half, with nothing visible below the waist.
8. Return to Village: As dawn breaks, Holt finds himself re-entering the village from an unexpected direction, appearing disheveled and distressed.
9. Confirmation of Tragedy: Holt’s brother receives a telegram confirming the destruction of Holt’s Chicago home by fire. His wife and child were trapped inside, and his wife was last seen at 11:25 PM, the same time as Holt’s eerie experience.
10. Conclusion: Holt’s inexplicable encounter with the apparition of his wife and child coincides with their tragic demise in the fire, leaving him shaken and haunted by the experience.

Literary Devices in “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

Device	Explanation
Allusion	The story alludes to the supernatural and the unknown, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue.
Amplification	The author emphasizes the intensity of the light and the horror of the apparition to create a sense of drama and tension.
Anaphora	The repetition of “always” in “Always the shadow was before—always the light behind” creates a sense of rhythm and emphasizes the strange phenomenon.
Assonance	The use of vowel sounds in “a still and awful red” creates a sense of musicality and adds to the eerie atmosphere.
Characterization	The author reveals Mr. Holt’s personality and emotions through his thoughts, actions, and dialogue.
Contrast	The contrast between the peaceful summer evening and the terrifying apparition creates a sense of shock and surprise.
Description	Vivid descriptions of the setting, light, and apparition create a sense of immersion and visualization.
Enjambment	The sentence “The flare was momentary, followed by black darkness, in which, however, the apparition still showed white and motionless;” runs on to the next line, creating a sense of urgency and continuity.
Figurative Language	Metaphors (“the monstrous shadow of himself”), similes (“white as a rat”), and personification (“the light still came from behind him”) create vivid and evocative descriptions.
Flashback	The story flashes back to the incident with Mr. Holt’s wife to provide context and background information.
Foreshadowing	The mention of “trouble with his wife” and the “distressing changes” in his life hints at the tragic events that will unfold.
Imagery	The author uses sensory details to create powerful images in the reader’s mind, such as the “soft, red glow” and the “upper half of the woman’s figure”.
Irony	The contrast between the peaceful summer evening and the terrifying apparition creates an ironic sense of unexpectedness.
Juxtaposition	The juxtaposition of the peaceful setting and the horrific apparition creates a sense of shock and surprise.
Onomatopoeia	The use of words like “flare” and “extinguishing” creates a sense of suddenness and intensity.
Personification	The light is personified as coming from behind him, creating a sense of agency and malevolence.
Repetition	The repetition of “always” and “still” creates a sense of rhythm and emphasizes the strange phenomenon.
Symbolism	The light and shadow may symbolize the unknown, the supernatural, or the protagonist’s inner turmoil.
Suspense	The author builds suspense by gradually increasing the intensity of the light and the horror of the apparition.
Syntax	The author uses complex sentence structures and punctuation to create a sense of rhythm and flow.
Tone	The tone of the story is eerie, suspenseful, and tragic, creating a sense of foreboding and dread.

Characterization in “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

• Major Character: Mr. William Holt: Mr. William Holt is the protagonist of the story, and the narrative revolves around his experiences and emotions. He is characterized as a wealthy manufacturer from Chicago, who has been living temporarily in a small town in central New York. The story reveals that he has had “trouble with his wife” and has been parted from her for a year, suggesting that he is a man dealing with personal struggles and emotional pain. Through his thoughts and actions, Holt is portrayed as a introspective and curious individual, who is drawn into the mysterious and supernatural events that unfold. For example, when he sees the apparition of his wife, he is described as being “dumfounded” and “wild-eyed”, showing his shock and amazement.
• Minor Character: Holt’s Wife: Holt’s wife is a minor character who appears only in the apparition and is not physically present in the story. However, her presence is felt throughout the narrative, and her character is revealed through Holt’s thoughts and the events that unfold. She is portrayed as a woman who has been troubled by her husband’s infidelities and has been separated from him for a year. The apparition of her holding their child suggests that she is a loving and devoted mother, who is desperate to communicate with her husband even in death.
• Minor Character: Holt’s Brother: Holt’s brother is a minor character who appears briefly in the story. He is portrayed as a calm and rational individual, who is concerned about Holt’s well-being and tries to offer him comfort and support. When Holt relates his supernatural experience to his brother, he is met with skepticism and advice to “go to bed” and “wait”, showing that his brother is a voice of reason and sanity in the story.

Major Themes in “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

1. Technology and Isolation: The story explores the theme of technology’s potential to isolate individuals. As Mr. James Smith, the protagonist, communicates via wireless telegraphy, he remains physically isolated atop a mountain, separated from society. Despite being connected electronically, Smith experiences a profound sense of loneliness and detachment, emphasized by his futile attempts to establish contact with others. For instance, Smith’s distressing realization that the wireless operator he communicates with has died underscores the theme of isolation amidst technological advancement.
2. Fear and Paranoia: Bierce employs fear and paranoia as central themes, heightening tension throughout the narrative. Smith’s growing apprehension about the mysterious messages he receives and his inability to decipher their meaning contribute to a pervasive atmosphere of dread. This is exemplified when Smith, already unnerved by the strange signals, encounters an inexplicable fog that engulfs him, intensifying his fear and sense of impending danger.
3. The Unknown and Unseen Forces: Another prominent theme is the exploration of the unknown and the presence of unseen forces beyond human comprehension. Smith’s encounter with the mysterious signals and the enigmatic fog highlights humanity’s limited understanding of the world. The story suggests that there are phenomena and entities that exist beyond the realm of human perception, evoking a sense of awe and existential uncertainty. For example, Smith’s inability to ascertain the source or purpose of the signals underscores the theme of confronting the unknowable.
4. Existential Alienation: Bierce delves into themes of existential alienation, portraying Smith’s existential crisis as he grapples with his solitary existence and the ambiguous nature of reality. Smith’s futile attempts to establish meaningful connections through the wireless telegraphy system reflect his profound sense of disconnection from the world around him. This theme is exemplified when Smith questions the validity of his own existence in the face of the inexplicable phenomena he encounters, highlighting the inherent human struggle to find meaning and connection in a seemingly indifferent universe.

Writing Style in “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

• Descriptive Language: Bierce uses vivid and descriptive language to paint a picture of the setting and events in the story.
• Example: “The landscape was growing more distinct—was brightening. Everything was suffused with a soft, red glow in which he saw his shadow projected in the road before him.”
• Suspenseful Tone: The story is written in a suspenseful tone, building tension and anticipation in the reader.
• Example: “He turned about and went back the way that he had come. Before he had gone far he observed that the landscape was growing more distinct—was brightening.”
• Irony: Bierce uses irony to create a sense of surprise and contrast.
• Example: “The moment of this culminating horror was eleven o’clock and twenty-five minutes, standard time.” (This is the same time Holt saw the apparition, creating a sense of irony and connection between the events.)
• Symbolism: The story uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings and themes.
• Example: The light and shadow may symbolize the unknown, the supernatural, or the protagonist’s inner turmoil.
• Concise Prose: Bierce’s writing is concise and direct, with a focus on advancing the plot and building tension.
• Example: “He was wild-eyed, haggard, and gray as a rat. Almost incoherently, he related his night’s experience.”
• Unreliable Narrator: The story is told through an unreliable narrator, creating a sense of uncertainty and doubt.
• Example: “The writer’s memory has not retained” (the name of the town), creating a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty.
• Buildup and Climax: The story builds up to a climactic moment, creating a sense of anticipation and surprise.
• Example: The gradual increase in intensity of the light and the horror of the apparition leads to the climactic moment of the telegram revealing the death of Holt’s wife and child.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

Literary Theory	Interpretation	Example from the Story
Freudian Psychoanalysis	The story can be seen as an exploration of Holt’s subconscious mind and repressed emotions, with the supernatural events representing his inner turmoil and guilt.	The apparition of Holt’s wife and child can be seen as a manifestation of his guilt and grief, symbolizing his repressed emotions and subconscious desire for punishment.
Marxist Criticism	The story can be interpreted as a critique of the capitalist bourgeoisie and the exploitation of the working class, with Holt’s wealth and privilege serving as a backdrop for the supernatural events.	The destruction of Holt’s home and family can be seen as a symbol of the destruction of the old social order, with the supernatural events representing the chaos and upheaval of the working class.
Gothic Literary Theory	The story can be seen as a classic example of Gothic literature, with its use of supernatural elements, atmospheric setting, and themes of death, decay, and the unknown.	The use of the dark, isolated setting and the supernatural apparition of Holt’s wife and child creates a sense of fear and unease, typical of Gothic literature, and serves to explore themes of mortality and the unknown.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

Topics	Questions	Thesis Statements
1. Supernatural Elements in “A Wireless Message”	– How does Ambrose Bierce blend supernatural elements with psychological depth in Mr. William Holt’s experience?	– Through the interplay of supernatural occurrences and psychological turmoil, Ambrose Bierce crafts a haunting narrative that challenges perceptions of reality.
	– What role does Mr. Holt’s emotional state play in shaping his perception of the supernatural events?	– The supernatural elements in “A Wireless Message” serve as a catalyst for exploring the protagonist’s internal struggles and existential questions.
	– Analyze the significance of the apparition of Mr. Holt’s wife and child in relation to his personal turmoil.	– The spectral apparition in “A Wireless Message” symbolizes unresolved emotions and the haunting nature of loss, leading to a deeper exploration of the human psyche.
2. Symbolism and Imagery in “A Wireless Message”	– How does Bierce employ imagery and symbolism to enhance the eerie atmosphere of the story for Mr. William Holt’s experience?	– The symbolic use of light, darkness, and spectral imagery in “A Wireless Message” contributes to its haunting atmosphere and thematic depth.
	– Discuss the thematic implications of Mr. Holt’s shadow and the mysterious illumination he encounters.	– Through intricate symbolism and vivid imagery, Ambrose Bierce imbues “A Wireless Message” with layers of meaning, inviting readers to delve into its rich narrative tapestry.
	– Explore the significance of the apparition of Mr. Holt’s wife and child, particularly in relation to themes of loss and tragedy.	– The spectral apparition in “A Wireless Message” serves as a poignant symbol of grief, regret, and the lingering impact of past actions.
3. Fate and Premonition in “A Wireless Message”	– How does the story explore the theme of fate and premonition through Mr. William Holt’s experiences?	– In “A Wireless Message,” Ambrose Bierce weaves a narrative of inexorable destiny and tragic premonition, challenging the protagonist’s understanding of time and mortality.
	– Discuss the role of the telegram in shaping Mr. Holt’s perception of his experience and impending tragedy.	– Through the timely arrival of a predestined telegram, “A Wireless Message” explores the notion of fate and the inevitability of tragic events.
	– Analyze the impact of the culminating tragedy at eleven o’clock and twenty-five minutes on Mr. Holt’s worldview.	– The pivotal moment of tragedy in “A Wireless Message” underscores the fragility of human existence and the haunting presence of fate in our lives.

Short Questions/Answers about/on “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

• Question 1: How does the story’s use of setting and atmosphere contribute to the themes of isolation and the unknown?
• The story’s setting, a dark and isolated road in the countryside, creates a sense of isolation and unease, mirroring Holt’s emotional state. The use of descriptive language, such as “the landscape was growing more distinct—was brightening” and “a soft, red glow”, creates an eerie atmosphere, hinting at the supernatural events that will unfold. This setting and atmosphere serve to explore the themes of isolation and the unknown, highlighting the idea that even in moments of solitude, the unknown can still penetrate and disrupt one’s life.
• Question 2: What role does the telegram play in the story, and how does it relate to the themes of technology and the supernatural?
• The telegram serves as a plot device, revealing the tragic news of Holt’s family’s death, but also represents the intersection of technology and the supernatural. The telegram’s arrival coincides with the apparition’s disappearance, blurring the lines between the natural and supernatural. This juxtaposition highlights the theme that technology, despite its advancements, cannot explain or prevent the unknown and supernatural events that occur in life.
• Question 3: How does Holt’s character development throughout the story relate to the themes of grief, guilt, and redemption?
• Holt’s transformation from a introspective and melancholic individual to a “wild-eyed, haggard, and gray” man, demonstrates the devastating impact of grief and guilt. His encounter with the apparition serves as a manifestation of his repressed emotions, forcing him to confront his past mistakes and seek redemption. Through Holt’s character development, the story explores the themes of grief, guilt, and redemption, highlighting the idea that confronting one’s past and emotions is a crucial step towards healing and redemption.

Literary Works Similar to “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

1. “The Signal-Man” by Charles Dickens: This eerie tale revolves around a signalman who receives mysterious warnings of impending danger from a specter near a railway tunnel. Like “A Wireless Message,” it combines elements of the supernatural with psychological depth.
2. “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge” by Ambrose Bierce: Another masterpiece by Bierce, this story explores the perceptions of time, reality, and mortality as a man faces imminent execution during the Civil War. It shares themes of fate, premonition, and the surreal.
3. “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman: While not supernatural in the traditional sense, this story delves into psychological horror as a woman confined to a room becomes increasingly obsessed with the wallpaper’s patterns, leading to a chilling climax. It shares themes of psychological turmoil and eerie atmosphere.
4. “The Beckoning Fair One” by Oliver Onions: This supernatural tale follows a struggling writer who becomes obsessed with a haunting presence in his new apartment. Like “A Wireless Message,” it explores the blurred lines between the real and the supernatural, with themes of obsession and psychological disintegration.
5. “The Monkey’s Paw” by W.W. Jacobs: In this classic horror story, a family’s life is forever changed after they acquire a cursed monkey’s paw that grants wishes, but with sinister consequences. It shares themes of fate, tragedy, and the unsettling impact of the supernatural on ordinary lives.

Suggested Readings about/on “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

1. Bierce, Ambrose. The Collected Works of Ambrose Bierce... Vol. 2. Neale Publishing Company, 1909.
2. Bierce, Ambrose. Can Such Things Be?. Albert and Charles Boni, 1909.
3. Halliday, Sam. “Time and Space.” Science and Technology in the Age of Hawthorne, Melville, Twain, and James: Thinking and Writing Electricity. New York: Palgrave Macmillan US, 2007. 17-58.
4. Bahr, Howard W. “Ambrose Bierce and Realism.” Southern Quarterly 1.3 (1963): 309.

Representative Quotations from “A Wireless Message” by Ambrose Bierce

Quotation	Context	Theoretical Perspective
“He was ‘lost’.”	Holt realizes he has wandered far beyond the town limits and is traversing a lonely region.	Psychoanalytic theory: Holt’s physical lostness reflects his emotional state, symbolizing his disconnection from his past and his inner turmoil.
“Everything was suffused with a soft, red glow…”	Holt observes a mysterious light illuminating the landscape.	Gothic literary theory: The eerie, supernatural light creates a sense of fear and foreboding, typical of Gothic literature, and serves to explore themes of mortality and the unknown.
“Her eyes were fixed upon his with an expression which he afterward professed himself unable to name or describe, further than that it was ‘not of this life’.”	Holt sees the apparition of his wife and child.	Marxist criticism: The apparition represents the repressed emotions and guilt of the capitalist bourgeoisie, with the wife’s expression symbolizing the unknowable and uncontrollable forces of the working class.
“The sudden darkness was comparative, not absolute, for gradually all objects of his environment became again visible.”	Holt experiences a moment of darkness after the apparition vanishes.	Poststructuralist theory: The darkness represents the instability of meaning and the fragmented nature of reality, with the gradual reappearance of objects symbolizing the reconstruction of reality through language and perception.
“The moment of this culminating horror was eleven o’clock and twenty-five minutes, standard time.”	Holt receives the telegram revealing the death of his wife and child.	Freudian psychoanalysis: The precise timing of the horror represents the inevitability and determinism of fate, with the trauma of the event serving to reinforce Holt’s repressed emotions and guilt.