The Boarded Window, Ambrose Bierce: Summary & Analysis

‘The Boarded Window’: Plot Summary Set in the early 19th century in the Ohio woods near Cincinnati, 'The Boarded Window' tells the story of Murlock, a man who lives alone in a remote cabin. Murlock, who appears much older than his actual age, is discovered dead in his cabin and buried beside his wife. The area surrounding the cabin is rumored to be haunted. The narrator recounts a story passed down by their grandfather, revealing the events leading to Murlock's tragic end. Years earlier, Murlock's wife fell ill and passed away. In his grief, Murlock prepares her body for burial in their small cabin. Overwhelmed by exhaustion, he dozes off, only to be abruptly awakened by a mournful sound akin to a lost child's cry. Uncertain if the noise is real or a figment of his dreams, Murlock remains disoriented. Upon regaining consciousness, Murlock finds himself face-to-face with a sinister presence—a dark, formless entity that permeates the room. The table trembles, and the ec…