Question

How does O. Henry create surprise in “After Twenty Years”? Cite examples of how the author’s choices in structuring the passage and/or the use of foreshadowing develop the element of surprise

Answer 1

Set in the American Midwest during the early 1900s, “A Retrieved Reformation” concerns the surprising fate of Jimmy Valentine, a skilled young safecracker who returns to society after he is paroled from prison. The story begins at the prison shortly before Jimmy Valentine if set free; the majority of the narrative occurs in Elmore, a small backwoods town in Arkansas where he settles. Major characters include Jimmy Valentine; Mike Dolan, his partner in crime; detective Ben Price, Jimmy’s nemesis; and Annabel Adams, the girl with whom Jimmy falls in love. Minor characters are the prison warden; Cronin, a prison guard; Mr. Adams, Annabel’s father; Annabel’s sister; Annabel’s two young nieces, May and Agatha; a hotel clerk; and a young boy who lives in Elmore. 

So your answer is Enlightenment.


-Duolingo

Answer 2

In this story, one of O. Henry's most important achievements is that of creating surprise. O. Henry does it by revealing only what is absolutely necessary for the reader to know in advance. He structures his passages in a way that focuses more on recollections than on present events. In this way, we learn about the two men from their own perspective, which places a lot of emphasis on their connection and closeness.

The author achieves surprise due to this, as the reader never expects a tragic ending after the relationship between the two men was so lovingly described. Moreover, he does not hint at the fact that the policeman and "Jimmy Wells" are not who they say they are. Nevertheless, O. Henry also uses foreshadowing successfully when talking about the past experiences of Bob. These suggest he might have some trouble with the law in the future.