Major themes which influence the cynical nature of Bierce's
stories are his childhood and of course, his experiences during the American
Civil War. He did not care much for his family, as he believed himself to be
neglected. He disliked his brothers greatly, writing in a column about his
brother Aurelius who had died, "A life like this so bright and shining an
example that we are almost sorry he died."[1]
However, he did appreciate his father's library. He once mentioned that
"All that I have I owe to his books."[2]
suggesting that the library was a very heavy influence. His Uncle Lucius, appears
to have inspired Bierce to despise slavery. Under Lucius' guidance, Bierce joined
the Kentucky Military Institute.[3]
This education provided Bierce with knowledge about "draftmanship and
cartography".[4]
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