A Valedictory by O. Henry (1919)
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his hometown after being away for many years. He reunites with an old flame and they rekindle their romance. However, the woman's husband, a wealthy businessman, becomes suspicious of their relationship and confronts them. The young man is forced to leave town again, but not before he reveals that he has been embezzling money from his employer and plans to use it to start a new life with the woman. The woman's husband kills him in a fit of rage, and then takes his own life as well. The story ends with the revelation that the young man had actually been planning to expose the woman's husband for his corrupt business practices all along, and that he was using their affair as a ruse to get close to him. The woman is left alone, but ultimately finds happiness with another man who loves her for who she truly is. The story explores themes of love, deception, and redemption, raising questions about the nature of morality and the consequences of one's actions.
By O. Henry · First published 1919 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Satire, Humor · 405 words
First lines
The "Some Postscripts" man on the Post has about reached the end of his vein. These spurts of brilliancy many are capable of, but the sustained light that burns for years to gladden and instruct is a rare quality, and the possessor should be appreciated by the people, for he is the true Messiah -- the eldest son of the great intellectual lord of the universe. Brenham Press
What this Textopian page supports
A Valedictory is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1919 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: O. Henry
- Date: 1919 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Satire, Humor, Philosophical Fiction, Short Story
- Length: 405 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for A Valedictory by O. Henry
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Valedictory?
- How does this short story by O. Henry fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of creativity, recognition, and the nature of success, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Satire — The narrative employs humor and irony to critique societal expectations and the literary industry.
- Humor — The writing style incorporates wit and playful language, aiming to entertain while delivering a deeper message.
- Philosophical Fiction — The text reflects on existential themes regarding the value of artistic expression and the fleeting nature of fame.
Tags
Short Story · American Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Irony · Twist Ending · Moral Lesson · Fiction · Literary Fiction · Classic · Vintage