The Phonograph and the Graft
A wealthy man's death sets off a chain of events as his relatives and acquaintances vie for control of his estate. The story revolves around the phonograph that holds the key to unlocking the truth about the man's life and death, but its contents are encrypted in a way that only one person can decipher.
By O. Henry · First published 1906 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Satire, Adventure · 5,464 words
First lines
"What was this graft? " asked Johnny, with the impatience of the great public to whom tales are told.
" 'Tis contrary to art and philosophy to give you the information," said Keogh, calmly. "The art of narrative consists in concealing from your audience everything it wants to know until after you expose your favourite opinions on topics foreign to the subject. A good story is like a bitter pill with the sugar coating inside of it. I will begin, if you please, with a horoscope located in the Cherokee Nation; and end with a moral tune on the phonograph.
What this Textopian page supports
The Phonograph and the Graft 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: Literary Fiction, Satire, Adventure, Comedy, Historical Fiction
- Length: 5,464 words
- Structure: 1 section, 76 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Phonograph and the Graft 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 The Phonograph and the Graft?
- 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
- The Flag Paramount by O. Henry
- A Matter Of Mean Elevation by O. Henry
- An Adjustment Of Nature by O. Henry
- Two Thanksgiving Day Gentlemen by O. Henry
- Little Speck In Garnered Fruit by O. Henry
- Mammon And The Archer by O. Henry
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of morality, graft, and human nature through rich character development and narrative style.
- Satire — It critiques societal norms and political corruption, using humor and irony to highlight the absurdities of the characters' situations.
- Adventure — The protagonists embark on a journey to South America, facing various challenges and engaging with local culture.
- Comedy — The dialogue and situations are infused with humor, providing comedic relief amidst serious themes.
Tags
Short Story · American Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Graft and Corruption · Phonograph Technology · 19th Century Setting · Urban Life · Class Conflict · Morality Tale · Irony