After Twenty Years (Annotided)

O. Henry's short stories are well-known for their clever plots, wit and humanism. If you appreciate parable stories, O. Henry's works are the right choice for you.

"After Twenty Years" tells about two different characters, two different philosophies and two different value systems. Bob is materialistic, he wants to get a lot of money and doesn't care how he gets it. Jimmy is conservative and wants a good and socially useful job, a home and a family. These different philosophies take them on different paths. After 20 years Jimmy has a good job, he likes his work and family. Bob has made a lot of money, but money has't really done him good. He is always on the run and he will end up in prison.

Because of the masterly style and the great described characters "After Twenty Years" is highly recommended for all ages.