Plot summary, “After Twenty Years” by O. Henry in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"After Twenty Years" is a short story written by the American author O. Henry, the pen name of William Sydney Porter. It was first published in 1906 as part of O. Henry's collection titled "The Four Million." The story is known for its twist ending and its exploration of themes related to friendship and the passage of time.
The plot of "After Twenty Years" revolves around a planned reunion between two friends, Jimmy Wells and Bob. They had been close friends in their younger years but had parted ways when Jimmy went to seek his fortune in the West while Bob stayed behind in New York City. They agree to meet again at a specific location in New York City after twenty years have passed.
Bob arrives at the meeting place and waits for Jimmy, filled with anticipation and nostalgia for their friendship. As he stands there, a police officer approaches him and inquires about his business. Bob reveals that he is waiting for his old friend Jimmy Wells. The police officer then reveals that he is, in fact, Jimmy Wells and that he recognized Bob immediately. He explains that he has been a police officer in the same neighborhood for the past twenty years.
The twist in the story is that Bob had not recognized his old friend Jimmy, who had aged and changed significantly during their time apart. Bob is initially stunned by the revelation but quickly realizes the truth of the situation. The story ends with Jimmy arresting Bob for an outstanding warrant, showing that he remains loyal to his duty as a police officer despite their emotional reunion.
O. Henry's "After Twenty Years" is celebrated for its clever use of irony and its exploration of themes related to change, loyalty, and the passage of time. It is a classic example of O. Henry's signature twist endings, where the reader's expectations are subverted in a surprising and thought-provoking way. The story is relatively short but packs a powerful punch in its exploration of human relationships and the impact of time on friendship.