# A Playwright explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Ambrose Bierce.

## What happens

Saint Peter confronts the soul of William Greer Harrison at the Gate of Gold, accusing him of writing a terrible play called 'Runnymede.' Harrison defends himself, claiming he has since written only lies about his critics. Enraged, Saint Peter strikes Harrison with his key, sending him hurtling toward Sheol.

## Themes in this chapter

### Art and Criticism

The chapter revolves around Harrison's play 'Runnymede' and the criticism it receives from Saint Peter, highlighting the tension between artistic creation and critical reception.

### Deception and Self-Deception

Harrison admits to lying about his critics, showing self-deception about his own work.

## Character check-ins

### Playwright Saint Peter

Sitting at the Gate of Gold, he confronts Harrison about his play and strikes him with his key.

### Greer Harrison

A soul ascending to Heaven, he defends his playwriting and is struck down by Saint Peter.

## Key lines

> A Playwright Saint Peter, sitting at the Gate of Gold, Looked idly down the cloudway and, behold, A soul ascending from this world of woe, Head up, hands pocketed⁠—serene and bold!

Saint Peter, acting as a playwright, sits at Heaven's gate and sees a confident soul rising from Earth.

_Introduces the scene and Saint Peter's role as a gatekeeper and critic._

> But, sir, the play you wrote was Runnymede !” “Well?” “Worst I ever saw!”

Saint Peter condemns Harrison's play 'Runnymede' as the worst he has ever seen.

_Central conflict: artistic criticism._

> The Saint drew back his great two-handed key And, as the nude immortal turned to flee, Swung the big engine of his holy wrath, And smote him where the back forgets to be!

Saint Peter strikes Harrison with his key, hitting him on the backside.

_Physical punishment for Harrison's impenitence._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se/chapters/a-playwright
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_se/chapters