A Retrieved Reformation

by

O. Henry

A Retrieved Reformation Symbols

Jimmy’s Tools

Career safecracker and thief Jimmy Valentine’s suitcase of burglar’s tools is mentioned several times throughout “A Retrieved Reformation.” Made in part by Valentine himself, the high-quality tools represent Jimmy’s expertise and dedication to his…

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Annabel’s Rose

The rose pinned to Annabel Adams’s dress is only mentioned once in “A Retrieved Reformation,” yet it is deeply symbolic of Jimmy’s love for Annabel. After assuming the identity of Ralph D. Spencer…

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Ben Price’s Button

Just like Jimmy Valentine’s tools represent his dedication to his criminal profession, Ben Price’s collar-button represents his own dedication to his job as a police detective. O. Henry points out Price’s button on…

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