Ambrose Bierce was an American newspaper columnist, satirist, essayist, short-story writer, and novelist, an enigmatic figure, and some say he was simply a cold-hearted bitter person. His death is still a mystery, but in 1913 Bierce set off for Mexico and stated, "If you ever hear of my being stood up against a Mexican Stone wall and being shot to rags please know it is a pretty good way to depart this life. It beats old age, disease, or falling down the cellar stairs." He is presumed to have died in the siege of Ojinega on January 11 1914. Bierce is best known for his writing in short stories collected in Tales of Soldiers and Civilians. These stories are said to show the influence of Edgar Allan Poe. In Killed at Resaca, the narrator introduces Herman Brayle, whom he considers one of the best soldiers of the staff. The narrator describes him as tall and strong and well liked by everyone. However, he has the strange quirk of being in the thick of battle, sitting tall on his horse or standing while being exposed to gunfire. This happens regularly, even in situations where he does not need to be in danger. His style of brazenly risking himself is admonished to which he accepts and tells people that he hopes people will say "I told you so" should he ever come to harm by his methods. In a later battle, Brayle once again rushes forward to bring notice to someone… You can listen online to free English audiobook “Killed at Resaca” by Ambrose Bierce on our website.
