“A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

“A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry, first published in 1904, again appeared in his collection Rolling Stones, embodying his wit and penchant for surprise endings. With a seemingly ordinary object, a newspaper, at its center, the story takes an unexpected turn, weaving a narrative rich in irony and human drama. O. Henry’s masterful use of language keeps the reader engaged, while the twist ending leaves a lasting impression, solidifying “A Newspaper Story” as a prime example of the author’s ingenious storytelling.

Main Events in “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

1. Introduction to the Newspaper: The story begins with a description of a newspaper as it’s delivered to Giuseppi’s newsstand, highlighting its multifaceted role in society as an educator, guide, monitor, and counselor.
2. Editorial Content: Specific editorials within the newspaper are highlighted, including one against corporal punishment, a warning to a labor leader, and a call for support for the police force.
3. Heart-to-Heart Column: A prescription for winning over a lady love is provided in the heart-to-heart column, demonstrating the paper’s advice-giving function.
4. Beauty Page: The paper offers guidance on achieving physical attractiveness, addressing a young lady’s query about enhancing her appearance.
5. Personal Advertisement: A cryptic personal ad, seemingly addressed to “Jack,” hints at a clandestine meeting at a certain location and time.
6. Encounter with the Newspaper: A young man, referred to as “Jack,” encounters the newspaper while on his way to work, but he is preoccupied and overlooks it.
7. Serendipitous Encounter: Jack unexpectedly encounters a woman, and they share a joyful reunion, suggesting a romantic relationship between them.
8. Accidental Mishap: A gust of wind blows the newspaper into the path of a horse-drawn buggy, causing a chaotic accident.
9. Police Intervention: A policeman, O’Brine, intervenes to remove the newspaper from the street, reflecting the newspaper’s literal impact on traffic.
10. Refreshment for Policeman: O’Brine receives a drink from a bartender, symbolizing the mutual support between law enforcement and the press.
11. Impact on Individuals: The newspaper’s content indirectly influences various individuals’ actions, such as a labor leader’s decision-making process and a girl’s transformation due to self-confidence gained from beauty advice.
12. Conclusion on the Power of the Press: The story concludes with reflections on the newspaper’s influence, highlighting its role in shaping opinions and behaviors, thus underscoring the power of the press.

Literary Devices in “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

Term	Explanation	Example from the story
Allusion	A reference to a person, place, event, or work of art that is outside the text itself	“jagerfonteins” (a type of sparkling water)
Character Development	The process by which an author reveals a character’s personality, traits, and motivations	The transformation of Gladys from a pale, discontented girl to a beautiful, confident one
Climax	The most intense or critical moment in a story	The moment when the labour leader is distracted from his strike plans by the puzzle problem
Denouement	The resolution of the conflict or plot	The labour leader’s abandonment of his strike plans, the avoidance of danger, and the paper’s triumph
Description	A detailed and vivid representation of a person, place, object, or event	The depiction of the newspaper’s contents and its effects on various characters
Dialogue	Conversation between characters	The exchange between Gladys and the Brown girl
Editorial	A newspaper article that expresses the opinion of the publication’s editor	The editorials on corporal punishment, the labour leader, and the police force
Flashback	A scene that takes the reader back in time to an event that occurred before the main story	The mention of Gladys’s previous letter to the beauty editor
Foreshadowing	Hints or clues that suggest events that will occur later in the story	The mention of the labour leader’s plans and the paper’s warning against them
Hyperbole	An exaggeration used for emphasis or effect	“a triumphant, subtle, vivifying, smile transfigured her face”
Imagery	Language that appeals to the senses, creating vivid mental images	“a sleepless night had left him a late riser”, “a complete answer to a young lady inquirer”
Irony	A contrast between what is expected and what actually occurs	The labour leader’s distraction from his strike plans by a puzzle problem
Juxtaposition	The placement of two or more elements or scenes side by side to compare or contrast them	The contrast between Gladys’s beauty and the Brown girl’s jealousy
Motif	A recurring theme or idea that is woven throughout a story	The power of the press to influence and shape events
Narrative Structure	The organization and sequence of events in a story	The non-linear structure, with events unfolding in a circular fashion
Personification	Attributing human qualities or characteristics to non-human entities	“the wind…flapped the flying newspaper against the face of the skittish bay”
Plot	The sequence of events that make up the story	The various events and encounters triggered by the newspaper
Point of View	The perspective from which the story is told	Third-person omniscient, with the narrator having access to multiple characters’ thoughts and feelings
Satire	A literary device that uses irony, sarcasm, and ridicule to criticize and expose vices and follies	The portrayal of the labour leader’s change of heart
Symbolism	The use of objects, colours, or other elements to represent abstract ideas or concepts	The newspaper as a symbol of the power of the press
Tone	The author’s attitude or feeling conveyed through the writing	Humorous, ironic, and playful, with a touch of satire

Characterization in “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

• Gladys: Gladys, a major character in the story, undergoes a significant transformation. Initially, she is described as “pale and discontented” (pg. 1), but after reading the newspaper’s beauty advice, she becomes “beautiful” with “sparkling eyes and rosy cheeks” (pg. 3). Her smile is also described as “triumphant and vivifying” (pg. 3), indicating a newfound confidence and happiness. This transformation showcases the impact of the newspaper’s advice on her life.
• The Labour Leader (Gladys’s father): The Labour Leader, another major character, is initially portrayed as a determined individual who intends to instigate a strike (pg. 1). However, he becomes distracted from his plans by a puzzle problem in the newspaper (pg. 4) and ultimately abandons his strike plans, avoiding danger (pg. 4). This change in behavior highlights the power of the newspaper in influencing people’s decisions and actions.
• Johnny (Gladys’s brother): Johnny, a minor character, plays a crucial role in bringing the newspaper into the family’s life. He brings home the newspaper (pg. 2) and later uses it to defend himself from school punishment (pg. 4). His actions demonstrate the resourcefulness and creativity of a young mind.
• The Brown Girl: The Brown Girl, a minor character, is introduced as a foil to Gladys. She meets Gladys on the street and becomes jealous of her beauty (pg. 3), displaying “pinched lips and spiteful words” (pg. 3). Her reaction highlights the impact of Gladys’s transformation on those around her.
• Policeman O’Brine: Policeman O’Brine, a minor character, is initially portrayed as a strict enforcer of the law, arresting the newspaper as a character dangerous to traffic (pg. 2). However, he later receives a “nip of the real stuff” from Danny, the head bartender (pg. 2), revealing a more relaxed and friendly side to his personality.
• Danny (the head bartender): Danny, a minor character, is introduced as a friendly and accommodating individual. He offers Policeman O’Brine a “nip of the real stuff” (pg. 2), showcasing his hospitality and warmth.
• The Young Man (Jack): The Young Man, a minor character, is portrayed as a romantic figure who receives a letter from his lady love and meets her at the corner (pg. 1). He ignores the newspaper, focusing on his reunion with his love, highlighting the importance of personal relationships in his life.
• The Lady Love (Penitent): The Lady Love, a minor character, is introduced as a penitent individual who writes a letter to the young man and meets him at the corner (pg. 1). Her “brown eyes and penitent expression” (pg. 1) convey a sense of remorse and longing, emphasizing the emotional depth of her character.

Major Themes in “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

• Power of Media Influence:
  • The newspaper’s editorials shape characters’ decisions and societal dynamics.
  • Editorial against corporal punishment indirectly influences disciplinary practices.
  • Warning to labor leader averts strike action, showcasing media’s sway over public opinion.
• Serendipitous Encounters:
  • Chance meetings and coincidences profoundly impact characters’ lives.
  • Jack’s encounter with his love facilitated by a series of unexpected events.
  • Highlights the unpredictable nature of human connections and the role of fate.
• Redemption and Forgiveness:
  • Personal ad seeking forgiveness sets the stage for themes of repentance and reconciliation.
  • Characters demonstrate the transformative power of forgiveness in healing relationships.
  • Emphasizes the importance of understanding and moving forward from past mistakes.
• Perception versus Reality:
  • Characters’ perceptions are challenged or altered by subsequent events.
  • Gladys’s physical transformation challenges preconceived notions of beauty.
  • Labor leader’s initial focus on a puzzle contrasts with his eventual decision-making regarding the strike, highlighting the complexity of human experiences.

Writing Style in “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

1. Reader-Response Theory: In interpreting “A Newspaper Story,” Reader-Response Theory emphasizes the role of the reader in constructing meaning from the text. Readers engage with the narrative, bringing their own experiences, beliefs, and interpretations to the story. For instance, readers may empathize with Jack’s late encounter with the woman he loves, drawing parallels to their own experiences of missed opportunities or serendipitous meetings. Similarly, readers may reflect on their perceptions of media influence and the power of forgiveness, shaping their understanding of these themes based on personal beliefs and experiences.
2. Marxist Criticism: Applying Marxist Criticism to “A Newspaper Story” involves analyzing social class dynamics and economic structures depicted in the narrative. The story subtly reflects class divisions and labor relations, particularly through the character of the labor leader and the potential strike action. The newspaper, as a representation of media owned by capitalists, exerts influence over public opinion and serves the interests of the ruling class. Additionally, the story indirectly critiques the commodification of beauty, as Gladys’s transformation aligns with societal ideals perpetuated by consumer culture.
3. Feminist Theory: Viewing “A Newspaper Story” through a Feminist lens involves examining gender roles, power dynamics, and representations of women in the narrative. While the story primarily focuses on male characters, it offers insights into female agency and autonomy. For example, the woman’s decision to seek forgiveness and reconcile with Jack showcases her agency in the relationship. Furthermore, Gladys’s transformation challenges traditional beauty standards and highlights the pressure on women to conform to societal norms. Analyzing the portrayal of female characters and their interactions within the patriarchal structure of society reveals underlying themes of empowerment and resistance.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

Topic	Question	Thesis Statement
The Power of the Press	How does the newspaper influence the characters and events in the story?	“In ‘A Newspaper Story’, O. Henry portrays the newspaper as a powerful tool that shapes the lives of its readers, demonstrating its ability to inspire, educate, and even manipulate individuals.”
Character Transformation	How do the characters in the story change or grow as a result of their interactions with the newspaper?	“Through the characters of Gladys and the Labour Leader, O. Henry illustrates the transformative power of the newspaper, highlighting its ability to bring about positive change and personal growth in individuals.”
Satire and Social Commentary	What social commentary or satire is present in the story, and how does O. Henry use the newspaper as a vehicle for critique?	“In ‘A Newspaper Story’, O. Henry employs satire to critique the societal norms and conventions of his time, using the newspaper as a symbol of the power of the press to shape public opinion and influence social change.”

Short Questions/Answers about/on “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

• Who is the real hero of the story, and why?
• The answer is debatable, but it’s not the newspaper itself. The story cleverly shows how seemingly insignificant events (a dropped newspaper, a missing page) have a ripple effect on the lives of various characters. Depending on your interpretation, the hero could be:
• The newspaper: One could argue the paper itself is the hero, influencing events through its content (the beauty tip) or by its physical presence (averting a strike).
• The wind: The wind plays a crucial role in driving the plot, carrying the message and causing the accident.
• Chance/Fate: The whole story hinges on a series of coincidences, suggesting fate or chance is the true driving force.
• What is the significance of the “Dear Jack” message?
• The “Dear Jack” message is the catalyst for the story’s events. It sets the young couple’s reunion in motion, but also creates a domino effect. The missed message leads to the accident, which brings the labor leader home, ultimately preventing a strike.
• How does O. Henry use the newspaper as a symbol?
• The newspaper is a symbol with multiple layers. On the surface, it represents the power of the press to inform and influence. However, O. Henry uses it more ironically. The paper’s messages often miss their intended targets, and its physical presence creates unintended consequences. Ultimately, the story suggests that life is unpredictable and sometimes the most important messages get lost in the shuffle.

Literary Works Similar to “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

1. “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry: Like “A Newspaper Story,” this classic short story by O. Henry explores themes of love, sacrifice, and serendipitous encounters. It tells the tale of a young married couple who each make a sacrificial gift for the other, only to discover that their gifts are no longer useful due to their sacrifices.
2. “The Cop and the Anthem” by O. Henry: Another short story by O. Henry, “The Cop and the Anthem” shares similarities with “A Newspaper Story” in its exploration of chance encounters and unexpected outcomes. It follows a homeless man, Soapy, as he tries to get arrested in order to spend the winter in jail, but his attempts are continually thwarted by serendipitous events.
3. “The Necklace” by Guy de Maupassant: This French short story shares thematic parallels with “A Newspaper Story,” particularly in its exploration of the consequences of vanity and the discrepancy between appearance and reality. It follows Madame Loisel, who borrows a necklace to appear wealthy at a party but then loses it, leading to unforeseen consequences.
4. “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson: While tonally different from “A Newspaper Story,” Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery” similarly examines the power of tradition, societal norms, and the influence of the collective. It delves into the darker aspects of human nature and societal conformity through its depiction of a small town’s annual ritual.
5. “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge” by Ambrose Bierce: This short story shares thematic elements with “A Newspaper Story,” particularly in its exploration of fate, perception versus reality, and the unexpected twists of fortune. It follows Peyton Farquhar, a Confederate sympathizer condemned to death, as he experiences a surreal escape attempt and ultimately confronts the harsh realities of war.

Suggested Readings about/on “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

• Henry, Olivier. Best short stories. Courier Corporation, 2002.
• Castellano, Joseph Philip. The voice of the people: the short stories of O. Henry. City University of New York, 1992.
• Lense, Edward. “O. Henry and His Fiction.” (1994): 651-660.
• O’Quinn, Trueman. “O. Henry in Austin.” The Southwestern Historical Quarterly 43.2 (1939): 143-157.
• Henry, Olivier. The complete works of O. Henry. Garden City Publishing Company, 1911.

Representative Quotations from “A Newspaper Story” by O. Henry

Quotation	Context	Theoretical Concept
“At 8 A. M. it lay on Giuseppi’s news-stand, still damp from the presses.”	The story begins with the introduction of the newspaper	Realism
“This particular newspaper was, according to its custom and design, an educator, a guide, a monitor, a champion and a household counsellor and vade mecum.”	The newspaper is described as a source of guidance and education	Social Commentary
“DEAR JACK: — Forgive me. You were right. Meet me corner Madison and -th at 8.30 this morning. We leave at noon. PENITENT.”	A personal advertisement in the newspaper leads to a romantic reunion	Romanticism
“Policeman O’Brine arrested it as a character dangerous to traffic.”	The newspaper is personified as a character that can cause harm	Personification
“Gladys was a pale girl, with dull eyes and a discontented expression. She was dressing to go up to the avenue to get some braid.”	Gladys is introduced as a character who is unhappy with her appearance	Character Development
“The Brown girl turned green. Only silk at $5 a yard could make the sound that she heard when Gladys moved.”	Gladys’s beauty is contrasted with the Brown girl’s jealousy	Irony
“After this can any one doubt the power of the press?”	The story concludes with a statement about the influence of the newspaper	Satire