The story revolves around a president who has been assassinated and his body is being transported to the capital for burial. The narrator describes the scene of chaos and grief that ensues as people gather to catch a glimpse of the president's coffin. As the procession makes its way through the city, the narrator notes the reactions of the crowd, from tears and wailing to cheers and applause. The story highlights the complexities of human emotion and the ways in which people respond to tragedy. The narrator also describes the president's body as being "a snapshot" of his life, frozen in time and revealing nothing about the person he was or the circumstances of his death. This phrase is repeated throughout the story, emphasizing the idea that even in death, the president remains an enigma. Ultimately, the story suggests that the president's assassination has brought people together, creating a sense of community and shared experience. The narrator concludes by noting that the president's body will soon be buried, but his legacy will live on in the memories of those who knew him.
By O. Henry · First published 1906 · Genre: Satire, Comedy, Fiction