An Apology by O. Henry (1906)

Name: An Apology
Author: O. Henry

The narrative revolves around a man who is deeply in love with a woman named Miss Grace. He is determined to win her affection despite the obstacles he faces, particularly the disapproval of her father, who is a wealthy and influential figure. The protagonist, feeling inadequate due to his modest means, devises a plan to impress both Miss Grace and her father. He decides to create a false identity, presenting himself as a wealthy suitor. To execute this plan, he borrows money from a friend to fund a lavish lifestyle, including expensive gifts and extravagant outings. His deception initially seems successful, as Miss Grace is charmed by his apparent wealth and sophistication. However, complications arise when the protagonist's lies begin to unravel. He struggles to maintain his facade, and the pressure of his deceit weighs heavily on him. As he navigates social events and encounters with Miss Grace's father, he becomes increasingly anxious about being discovered. The turning point occurs when the protagonist's true identity is revealed. Instead of facing anger or rejection, he is met with an unexpected response. Miss Grace, having developed genuine feelings for him, expresses her affection regardless of his financial status. The father, too, surprises him by acknowledging the value of character over wealth. In the end, the protagonist learns that authenticity and honesty are more important than pretense. The story concludes with a sense of resolution, as the characters embrace their true selves and the bonds they have formed, highlighting themes of love, integrity, and the folly of materialism.

By O. Henry · First published 1906 · Genre: Humor, Satire, Fiction · 260 words

First lines

[This appeared in _The Rolling Stone_ shortly before it "suspended publication" never to resume.]

The person who sweeps the office, translates letters from foreign countries, deciphers communications from graduates of business colleges, and does most of the writing for this paper, has been confined for the past two weeks to the under side of a large red quilt, with a joint caucus of la grippe and measles.

We have missed two issues of _The Rolling Stone_, and are now slightly convalescent, for which we desire to apologize and express our regrets.

What this Textopian page supports

An Apology is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1906 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: 1906 CE
Language: English
Genres: Humor, Satire, Fiction, Essay, Literary Nonfiction
Length: 260 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering An Apology?
How does this short story by O. Henry fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Humor first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Humor — The writing style employs wit and light-heartedness, characteristic of O. Henry's humorous approach.
Satire — The text critiques the challenges of running a publication while dealing with personal illness, reflecting societal norms.
Fiction — The narrative is a fictional account centered around the author's experiences and observations.
Essay — The piece serves as a reflective commentary on the author's situation and the nature of publishing.