The Vitagraphoscope by O. Henry
It's a short story about a man who invents a device that allows people to see the past and future through their eyes. He uses it to gain wealth and power by predicting stock market fluctuations and winning at games of chance. However, his invention also reveals dark secrets from his own past, leading to a tragic downfall.
By O. Henry · First published 1908 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Comedy, Drama · 1,157 words
First lines
Vaudeville is intrinsically episodic and discontinuous. Its audiences do not demand dénoûements. Sufficient unto each "turn" is the evil thereof. No one cares how many romances the singing comedienne may have had if she can capably sustain the limelight and a high note or two. The audiences reck not if the performing dogs get to the pound the moment they have jumped through their last hoop. They do not desire bulletins about the possible injuries received by the comic bicyclist who retires headfirst from the stage in a crash of (property) chinaware. Neither do they consider that their seat coupons entitle them to be instructed whether or no there is a sentiment between the lady solo banjoist and the Irish monologist.
What this Textopian page supports
The Vitagraphoscope is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1908 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: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Satire
- Length: 1,157 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Vitagraphoscope by O. Henry
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Vitagraphoscope?
- 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 human relationships and societal observations through a nuanced narrative style.
- Comedy — The episodic nature and humorous situations, particularly in the interactions between characters, align with comedic elements.
- Drama — The emotional depth and character-driven plots reflect dramatic themes, particularly in the exploration of personal struggles.
- Romance — The presence of romantic undertones and relationships between characters suggests elements of romance.
Tags
Short Story Collection · American Literature · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Realism · Irony · Wit · Wordplay · Puns · Comedy of Manners · Class Satire