Lit Critizem of "A Retrieved Reformation"

Literary Criticism of “A Retrieved Reformation”

As the formidable O. Henry once stated, “Write what you like; there is no other rule.” In the case of one of his most famous works “A Retrieved Reformation,” O. Henry decided upon creating the dynamic yet virtuous landscape within which he truly exhibited his profound mastery of the American short story. To truly procure a marvelous tapestry, he continually weaved his chromatic and capital threads throughout to fully deliver these draperies to the reader. Present in the fine work “A Retrieved Reformation” are a compendium of finely placed fibers encompassing tone, diction, figurative language, irony, archetypes, and imagery with which O. Henry masterfully maneuvers to exemplify his work.

Throughout the body of “A Retrieved Reformation,” O. Henry continually allows his characters to act for themselves, letting the reader deduce their personality through their actions instead of merely telling them. To illustrate, “Me?” said Jimmy, still blankly virtuous. “Why, warden, I never was in Springfield in my life!” This quote specifically uses Jimmy’s tone of superficial shock and innocence to give the reader the image of at least a wily character shall be present throughout this story. In addition to the previous quotation, “Me?” said Jimmy, in a puzzled tone. “I don’t understand. I’m representing the New York Amalgamated Short Snap Biscuit Cracker and Frazzled Wheat Company.” Yet again, this quotation serves to specifically use the obvious falsely innocent tone that presents Jimmy Valentine as such a man of acute guile.

Another character that is presented in slight to the readers would be Jimmy’s partial antagonist, Mr. Ben Price. To elucidate the matter, “Yes, I guess I want Mr. Valentine. He'll do his bit next time without any short-time or clemency foolishness.” As one reads the quote, the sheer confidence and presumed logical mindset of the speech provides one with a steady image of a lock-and-stock cold and...