Makes the Whole World Kin
The story revolves around a wealthy man who befriends a poor but honest laborer and decides to repay the laborer's kindness by giving him a large sum of money. However, the laborer's wife has been secretly embezzling funds from her employer, and when she discovers that her husband is now wealthy, she confesses to her crime in order to avoid being suspected of stealing from her new wealth. The wealthy man, unaware of the wife's deceit, decides to give her a large sum of money as well, effectively making them both rich. The story highlights the complexities of human nature and the consequences of one's actions.
By O. Henry · First published 1919 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Humor, Crime Fiction · 1,883 words
First lines
The burglar stepped inside the window quickly, and then he took his time. A burglar who respects his art always takes his time before taking anything else.
What this Textopian page supports
Makes the Whole World Kin 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, Humor, Crime Fiction, Social Commentary, Drama
- Length: 1,883 words
- Structure: 1 section, 51 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Makes the Whole World Kin by O. Henry
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Makes the Whole World Kin?
- 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
- Round The Circle by O. Henry
- The Remnants Of The Code by O. Henry
- Red Conlins Eloquence by O. Henry
- The Ethics Of Pig by O. Henry
- The Assessor Of Success by O. Henry
- Transients In Arcadia by O. Henry
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of human connection and societal norms through character interactions and dialogue.
- Humor — The dialogue between the burglar and the citizen is laced with wit and irony, providing comedic relief amidst the tension.
- Crime Fiction — The narrative centers around a burglary, presenting elements typical of the crime genre.
- Social Commentary — The story critiques social class distinctions and the nature of respectability in society.
Tags
Short Story Collection · American Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Realism · Irony · Twist Ending · Fiction · Literary Fiction · Classic Literature · 19th Century American Literature