A Retrieved Reformation Short Story

A Retrieved Reformation Short Story
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O. Henry's short story, "A Retrieved Reformation," shows a man's journey through rehabilitation. In
the story, Jimmy Valentine is in jail for robbery. Then is allowed to leave in hope he has finally
learned from his past mistakes and will stop robbing people to get what he desires. When Jimmy
leaves, he robs many more banks but does not get caught. Jimmy then goes to a small town so the
cops won't be able to find him, and the town has a train station for him to make a quick getaway.
When Jimmy first arrives to the town, he sees a lovely woman named Annabel Adams and
everything changes. He knows she won't like him if he keeps acting like his old self so, he decides
he will finally change for the better. He changes his name to Ralph Spencer and starts acting totally
different. This short story demonstrates change and how you affect people every day whether you
realize it or not. At the beginning of the coming of age story, when Jimmy gets let out of jail, we see
how Jimmy has not changed and he had went back to his old ways. To show this, the author explains
multiple robberies that happened within weeks of each other. Then, Ben Price, the detective trying to
find who has been robbing the banks, realized it was Jimmy Valentine who was back to his old
ways. To show this, the author wrote, "Ben Price knew Jimmy's habits. He had learned them while
working on the Springfield case. Long jumps, quick get–aways, no confederates, and a taste for
good society–– these ways had
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A Retrieved Reformation Theme
In the United States, a robbery occurs every one minute and thirty seconds.This equates to 6720 in a
week, 26,880 in a month, and 350,400 in a year. Robbery is a federal crime in which charges can be
applied ranging from $500 up to $1000.In the two short stories, "A Retrieved Reformation" by O'
Henry and "Thank You Ma'am" by Langston Hughes the themes of redemption and second chances
are shared through the main conflicts inflicted by the protagonists.To incorporate the two themes,
the authors use description words and specific details."A Retrieved Reformation" and "Thank You
Ma'am" are similar and different through shared themes of second chances and redemption, the
different approaches of the showing the themes, and how the characters develop ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
In "Thank You Ma'am" dialogue is used. This piece of text evidence from "Thank You Ma'am"
shows how dialogue is used more. "Now, here, take this ten dollars and buy yourself some blue
suede shoes. And next time, do not make the mistake of latching onto my pocketbook nor nobody
else's..." This piece of text evidence from "A Retrieved Reformation" shows that figurative language
is used more. "In a minute Jimmy was at work on the door.The significance of the two pieces of text
evidence is just to show parts of the story on how they are different on showing the two themes.
Both of the pieces of evidence showed, are from the parts of the stories where the protagonists are
getting their second chances and using them to their advantages.To help prove the claim that the two
short stories use different tactics to help show two themes in the story. These are two pieces of text
evidence from each story to help show the difference. The first piece of evidence is from "A
Retrieved Reformation", "Jimmy Valentine looked into her eyes, forgetting at once what he was. He
became another man." The second piece is from "Thank You Ma'am", ""You gonna take me to jail?"
asked the boy, bending over the sink. "Not with that face,

The Influence Of Jonathan Nobles: Life In Prisons
Every man can change their mask After reading a Death in Texas, yes, Jonathan Nobles was
rehabilitated while he was behind bars. He should have been put on life in prison instead of death in
the end. Mostly everyone that is inside the Prison being guards or inmates believe Jonathan Nobles
was a different man than the one that first walked past the doors that led him into the prison. He was
a good, decent man of society now and helped a lot of people during his time in prison. The
Jonathan Nobles that Steve Earle met was a man that found God. After he got sober Jonathan Nobles
wanted to change his ways and have a better life inside of prison that he didn't have outside before
he met his inevitable demise. So therefore, he became a part of the

Jimmy Valentine In A Retrieved Reformation
In the passage, "A Retrieved Reformation," there were several things that the characters did that I,
both liked and disliked. For example, according to the text, I liked how Jimmy Valentine played
innocent in front of the warden however, when he got out of jail, he started robbing banks again. I
liked this because it showed that Valentine didn't reform just because he went to jail. To clarify, he
didn't change his ways just because of one hindrance. In addition, according to the text, I liked how
Valentine was willing to abandon his old ways for the girl he loved, however, he had to retrieve
them, not to rob a bank, but to put them to good use. This shows that his ways were only bad
because of the reason why he used them; otherwise, they weren't

Trust In 'Speckled Band And A Retrieved Reformation'
Overall "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keys, "Speckled Band" by Arthur Conan Doyle, and "A
Retrieved Reformation" by O. Henry, have many themes in common. I could've chosen so many
other ones besides this theme. I decided to chose the theme of trust. Trust, as in whether you should
trust someone or not. Two of the characters in the stories have been around people that they have
trusted when maybe they shouldn't have. One of the characters was the person that people shouldn't
put their full trust in. Trust is a hard thing, something that should be learned and earned. Some
people don't deserve to be trusted, but get trusted anyways. Throughout all three stories the
characters learned a lesson about trust, whether to not trust or to only trust ... Show more content on
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In the three stories the characters learned that too. Helen learned to take in all the behaviors of the
people around her and then evaluate whether they are trustworthy or not. Even though Helen knew
Doctor Roylott basically her whole life, doesn't mean that he had a different view of her. Johnny
Valentine misused the people around him, people that he called family, in Elmore. He never had the
intention of lying to them, or at least never meant for them to find out that he was. Charlie realized
that because of the way that his brain works, people will never treat him like they would treat a
normal processing human being. His so called friends used him for their enjoyment and embarrassed
him over and over again. Charlie was finally done with the people that he used to trust and call his
friends and moved away because he wanted a fresh start with people that he could trust. "Flowers
for Algernon", "Speckled Band", and "A Retrieved Reformation" had many lessons and themes to be
learned, I thought that trust was the most important lesson because trust is something that everybody
needs to learn and

Comparing 'A Retrieved Reformation And Thank You M' Am
Most stories have very similar plots, character actions and themes. Stories become unique by having
different character actions and responses. In the short stories of "A Retrieved Reformation" and
"Thank You M'am", the similarities and differences between the two stories influence the direction
of the plots, character actions, and theme while making the characters into better people. The plot of
the two stories help change the characters into better people. In "A Retrieved Reformation", the plot
revolves around Jimmy Valentine, a bank robber who falls in love. In "Thank You M'am", the story
focuses on a young boy named Roger and an old woman who helps him even after he tried to rob
her. The plot is the sequence of events that make up a story. ... Show more content on
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Character actions are the things the characters do. In "A Retrieved Reformation", Jimmy or "Ralph"
saves Agatha from the locked bank vault. "With the act, ralph D. Spencer passed away and Jimmy
took his place... –he threw the bolts and opened the door". However , Jimmy had to show his old
self. In the past Jimmy had a criminal life. In the story of "Thank You M'am", Roger tries to steal
from Mrs. Jones. "... when a boy ran up behind her and tried to snatch her purse." Mrs. Jones then
took Roger back to her home, where Roger learned about the power of love and trust. Also, Roger
had a chance to escape when he was at Mrs. Jones' apartment. "The door was open ... he could run,
run, run, run, run!" However, he stayed. Roger learned about the strength and the importance of
reliance and forgiveness. Both stories show that the character actions help change the protagonists.
In "A Retrieved Reformation", Jimmy shows his troubled past, by unlocking the bank vault and
saving Agatha. In "Thank You M'am" Roger has the chance to run away, but instead he trusts Mrs.
Jones and stays. He learns that forgiveness can help turn your life around. Mrs. Jones was tempted
to throw Rogers in jail, but instead she forgives him and gives Roger another

What Is The Theme Of A Retrieved Reformation By O Henry
The intriguing short story, "A Retrieved Reformation" written by O. Henry speaks the story of a man
who is trying to turn his life around. Starting in prison by the name of Jimmy Valentine, he creates a
vile reputation for himself as a villainous criminal. This reputation follows him all through his life
but, when he sees a glimpse of being able to have a "perfect" life he snatches it up. After meeting the
alluring Ms.Annabel, Jimmy changes his name to Ralph Spencer and commences a different life, but
showing his true background could mess everything up. One theme this story suggests is that love
can alter a person's life. The belief in someone that they can accomplish something great is an act of
love. One example of this is when Ralph gets released from prison. The warden bestows upon Ralph
helpful advice for his life. "You'll go out in the morning. Brace up, and make a man of yourself.
You're not a bad fellow at heart. Stop cracking safes and live straight." This is significant because it
reveals that even the people who had known Ralph as a criminal still believe that he is capable of
changing his life for the better. Also, knowing that people believe in him can make it easier for him
to leave his life of crime behind. Not only is support from others motivation for change, but having
an epiphany brings in a whole new light. Ralph decides to write Ben, an old friend of Ralph's who
had only known him as a criminal, to tell him about how wonderful his new life had

A Retrieved Reformation By O Henry Summary
The short story "A Retrieved Reformation," written by O. Henry, takes place mostly in Elmore,
Arkansas. It starts off focusing on Jimmy Valentine, convicted felon, as he gets out of jail and
decides to get back into his old habit of safe–cracking. However, when he arrives into the town
where the bank he's targeted lies, he falls in love with Annabel Adams, the banker's daughter. He
became a new man, by the name of Ralph D.Spencer, and then they got married and started a family.
Unfortunately, in the end of the story, he transformed back into Jimmy to save his daughter from
dying. This story is an example of how loving and caring for others brings out the best in people.
When elite safecracker Jimmy Valentine arrived in Elmore, he had nobody in his life worth staying
in one place for. He had never met someone to fall in love with, until he saw, ironically, the banker's
daughter. "A young lady crossed the street, passed him at the corner and entered a door over which
was the sign, 'The Elmore Bank.' Jimmy Valentine looked into her eyes, forgot what he was, and
became another man." Jimmy was in love at first sight, and he was so excited because now there is
someone in his life worth sticking around for. He doesn't have to run away anymore. He changed
because he didn't want to live on the run, he wanted to be able to stay with the person he loved.
Another detail that proves Jimmy was changed by his love for Annabel is the metaphoric scene that
shows him change into a

Jimmy Valentine A Retrieved Reformation By O Henry
One of the greatest burglars changed his ways after visiting a small town in the country of Arkansas.
The short story A Retrieved Reformation by O. Henry follows the story of a man named Jimmy
Valentine, a safe burglar who just got out of prison. After going on a big heist Valentine went away
to a small town named Elmore and went by name Ralph D. Spencer. Valentine fell in love with with
the banker's daughter, Annabel, and claimed he was a changed man. Two weeks before Valentine
and Annabel were planned to be wed Annabel's niece got trapped in a safe and Valentine, choosing
to break the girl out ended up showing his true self to his future in–laws and wife. The debate has
come up on whether Valentine was truly dedicated to living a moral ... Show more content on
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"It was a complete set, made of specially tempered steel, the latest designs in drills, punches, braces,
and bits, jimmies, clamps, and augers, with two or three novelties, invented by Jimmy himself, in
which he took pride.". Valentine's tools were very important to him and he would not just give them
away if he was planning on using them latter. Valentine said the tools were also valued at over a
thousand dollars in 1903 which is when the story takes place. Now that is worth over 20 thousand
dollars. This means Valentine could have easily just sold the tools for a prophet then bought new
improved ones, but that is not what mattered to him. Valentine wanted to start a new life just and to
get rid of the tools. Also if he would have put them up for sale someone could have easily found out
who he was. Lastly Valentine giving the tools away symbolised the change of how he was going to
continue living his life. The tools symbolise Valentines old life of lying and stealing. When he
finally choose to give the tools away it showed his change, and that he was fully committed to a
moral life. So Valentine wanted to live a moral life, which is why he got rid of his

A Retrieved Reformation And The Gift Of The Magi
Great ideas come from the least expected places. That's what happened to famous American short
story writer O. Henry. He found himself a career by writing in a jail cell. Although this seems like a
weird place, many of his famous pieces came from him writing while serving time in jail. O. Henry
was famous for his surprise endings and also put a lot of his life experiences into his stories. Two of
O. Henry's stories where he incorporates his life into the most are "A Retrieved Reformation" and
"The Gift of the Magi." O. Henry uses a lot of examples where he uses his life experiences in "A
Retrieved Reformation." First of all, in their lives, both Jimmy and O. Henry go to for robbing
banks. O. Henry was jailed for embezzlement, while Jimmy

The Protestant Reformation: Greatest Turning Points In...
The Protestant Reformation
Kyle R Murray
Columbia Southern University Between the years of 1517–1648 is said to be the one of the greatest
turning points in European History. That was due to the Protestant Reformation. This was
considered the 16th Century religious, political, intellectual, and cultural change that caused break
up in European Catholic Church. That set in place the structures and beliefs that would define the
continent in modern era. The Protestant Reformation created the different Protestant denominations
we know today. Had it not been for the reformation our eyes may not have ever been opened to the
new faith based beliefs developed by the reformers. Many questioned the Catholic Church's ability
to define Christian ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The new religious and political freedoms for Northern Europe came at great cost, which followed
with decades of wars and bloody persecutions. The cost of forty percent of Germany's population
may have come from the Thirty Year's war (Rittgers, 2013). The results and change of the
Reformation was that it profoundly affected that of modern view of politics and law. The
Reformation gave us the Bible that is now available in several different languages, such as English.
The influence of Reformation on today's society is a very pervasive one. It changed our thinking on
family, the economy, working, theology, sex, sexuality, and more are all apart of the reflections and
influences of Reformation. While these thought have changed dramatically since the Reformation, it
could be argued that Reformation did lay the groundwork for exploration. Religion would play a
different role in our lives or the lives of the average person. We have more churches today than there
ever was many years ago. We have greater access to the Bible and scripture writings in many
languages. This is all because of the Reformation and those that decided to Reform. Had it not been
for great men like Luther and Calvin our modern day religious beliefs could be much different.
These men paved the way for how it is

Jimmy Valentine Quotes
Love can change a person for the better, this is what happened to Jimmy Valentine. Jimmy Valentine
cracks safes for a living, he was really good at it. He also went to jail for cracking safes for ten
months out of the four–year sentence. Jimmy's job in the prison was shoe–maker and he was pretty
good at it. Jimmy Valentine was truly dedicated to living a moral life because he was loyal, keeping
promises, and willing to sacrifice. Jimmy was living a moral life because he was loyal to his old
friends. He was loyal to his old friends by not ratting them out and was willing to give his old tools
to them. Jimmy was also loyal to Annabell his love. He was loyal to her because he didn't use her to
get close to the safe in the bank to steal the money. Also Jimmy was loyal to himself, he didn't crack
anymore safes and stayed clean while in Elmore. This shows Jimmy was dedicated to living a moral
life by showing his loyalty. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Jimmy gave up his lock tools to a friend to show he was done with cracking safes. This quote states,
"I want to make you a present of my kit tools." (O.Henry,4) Jimmy also made a big sacrifice by
thinking about moving away from his friends so he can stay with his wife Annabell. "After I get
married I'm going to sell out and go west." (O.Henry,4) Jimmy sacrificed his freedom to save
Agatha. He cracked the safe that Agatha was trapped in and this shows he is willing to sacrifice for
the people he loves. All of these are examples of what Jimmy did to live a moral

The Theme Of Redemption In 'A Retrieved Reformation' By...
Redemption is a theme that is shown throughout many stories including "Thank You, M'am" by
Langston Hughes and "A Retrieved Reformation" by O. Henry. The protagonists in the stories both
faced a conflict or made a bad decision and later had to redeem themselves. The mistakes made by
the protagonist allows for a chance for redemption. In the case of these two short stories, their
ability to redeem themself is a gift that not everyone gets. Both stories include the theme of
redemption. Jimmy Valentine from "A Retrieved Reformation" and Roger from "Thank You, M'am"
both start as thieves and evolve into a better man or boy, in Roger's case. In "A Retrieved
Reformation", Jimmy starts in jail and lies to all who worked there. This idea was supported with
the statement, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Both Roger and Jimmy had to make a decision at some point in the story. Both made the one best in
their situation which led them to have a chance at redemption. In both stories, the protagonist has a
chance to redeem themselves and in the end they use the chance to make it a reality. In "A Retrieved
Reformation", this idea was shown with this quote, "'Hello, Ben!' said Jimmy, still with his strange
smile, 'You're here at last, are you? Let's go. I don't care now.'" From that statement, one would
conclude how Jimmy was sure he would be going to jail with the police officer, Ben Price, but Ben
realized how Jimmy had acted. Roger from "Thank You, M'am", also redeemed himself. One
example would be when Mrs. Luella Bates sends Roger off, "'Because shoes got by devilish ways
will burn your feet. I got to get my rest now. But I wish you would behave yourself, son, from here
on in.' She led him down the hall to the front door and opened it. 'Goodnight! Behave yourself, boy!'
she said, looking out into the street." When Mrs. Luella Bates sends him off, the reader can see the
trust she sent him with and how she let Roger redeem

A Retrieved Reformation Jimmy Valentine Summary
In the story "A Retrieved Reformation", a long time safecracker, Jimmy Valentine, changes his life
after falling in love. The decision is made by police officer, Ben Price to let Jimmy go without
charging him with crimes committed when he sees a demonstration of Jimmy's reformation. I agree
with the police officer in not charging Jimmy with the crimes because he had become a respectable
shoe shop owner, he had given away his safecracking tools and he uses his skills of opening a safe
to save a little girl. Jimmy became a respectable shoe shop owner when he was released from prison.
He sold shoes and made an honest profit. Jimmy showed me that he had reformed his ways and that
he wanted to change. I think it was smart of Jimmy to open a business

Analysis Of A Retrieved Reformation By Henry
The story, a Retrieved Reformation, by Henry, narrates of Jimmy Valentine, a burglar who has just
been released from prison. He goes on a burglary spree then retreats to Elmore, Arkansas and opens
a shoe store with his loot. He creates the alias Ralph D. Spencer and goes by that name from then.
He meets a lady, Annabel Adams, who he falls in love with and gives up his criminal ways. The
story about a burglar who turned into a businessperson manages to save a life at the risk of revealing
his old illicit ways gains forgiveness for that reason and turns over a new leaf. It shows that no one
is perfect but with the right motivation, one can strive to live a proper life. The irony is one of the
underlying tones in this story. Jimmy goes to prison

O. Henry's A Retrieved Reformation
O. Henry's short story, "A retrieved Reformation," is about a young man named Jimmy who has
gone to jail for robbery multiple times. This time, he was released after ten months of a four year
sentence. When he was released, he started his own shoe store and met a young woman named
Annabel, who he recently got engaged to. All of this inspired him to quit the robbery business. This
story suggests that anyone can change no matter the situation. At the beginning of the story, Jimmy
doesn't have much of a desire to change, as he enjoys being in the robbery business. But as he
Leaves jail and meets Annabel, he starts to realize that he wants to change and needs to change. The
quote, "He had served nearly ten months of a four year," shows change already

A Retrieved Reformation Argumentative Essay Questions
Mrs. Ragusky E.L.A. Argumentative essay "Guess you're mistaken, Mr. Spencer... Don't believe I
recognize you. Your buggy's waiting for you..." In the story A Retrieved Reformation by O. Henry,
Jimmy Valentine gets out of the ''stir'' or jail and decides to start a new life. As Ralph Spencer, he
moved to Elmore, Arkansas and meets a woman named Annabel Adams; her father owns the bank in
Elmore. Ralph has to save a child from a safe, so he decides to crack it and risk his new life to save
the day. Jimmy (Ralph) has tried to live a moral life by showing his courage, his honesty, and his
respect. Initially, Jimmy lived his life moral by showing his courage. Stated in the story, "He set his
suitcase down on the table, and opened it out flat... He laid out a shining queer..." This shows how
he wasn't afraid to take the chance to save the life of another. Ralph showed his courage so that he
could save Agatha could live. Even Though Ralph could have lost what he has gained, he still saved
Agatha in the story. Even Though earlier in the story jimmy becomes ralph to get out of his safe
cracking job; he has to use his abilities once more. Saving a child and risked his future for her. These
reasons explain how jimmy was moral by using his cordage. ... Show more content on
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well let's go. I don't know that is makes much difference, now" Jimmy is turning himself in because
he cracked the safe in the bank. Jimmy doesn't go to jail from breaking into the bank's safe, even
though he should. the reason is because he saved Agatha's life, Ben Price lest Jimmy go. Even
Though Jimmy robed backs earlier in the story, he is still good. he tried to change but confessed his
identity when a life was in danger. These examples explain why jimmy was moral, because of his

The Ultimate Change In The Ultimate Change
Ultimate Change
O. Henry's short story, "A Retrieved Reformation," shows a man's journey through rehabilitation. In
the story, Jimmy Valentine is in jail for robbery. He is then allowed to leave in hope he has finally
learned from his past mistakes, and will stop robbing people to get what he desires. When Jimmy
leaves, he robs many more banks, but does not get caught. Jimmy then goes to a small town so the
cops will not be able to find him, and the town has a train station for him to make a quick getaway.
When Jimmy first arrives to the town, he sees a woman named Annabel Adams and everything
changes. He knows she will not like him if he keeps acting like his old self. Therefore, he decides he
will finally change for the better. He changes his name to Ralph Spencer and starts acting different.
This short story demonstrates change and how you affect people every day whether you realize it or
not. At the beginning of the coming of age story, when Jimmy gets let out of jail, we see how Jimmy
has not changed and he had went back to his old ways. To show this, the author explains multiple
robberies that happened within weeks of each other. Then, Ben Price, the detective trying to find
who has been robbing the banks, realized it was Jimmy Valentine who was back to his old ways. To
show this, the author wrote, "Ben Price knew Jimmy's habits. He had learned them while working
on the Springfield case. Long jumps, quick get–aways, no confederates, and a taste for good
society––

Jimmy Valentine From A Retrieved Reformation
Why Jimmy Valentine from "A Retrieved Reformation" is a Good Character I argue that Jimmy
Valentine from "A Retrieved Reformation" is a good character. He is a good character for the
following reasons. Firstly, Jimmy gives money to a blind man. Secondly, Jimmy frees a little girl
from a safe. Finally, Ben Price does not prosecute Jimmy. Overall, Jimmy from "A Retrieved
Reformation" is anything but a villain. Jimmy gives money to a blind man. In the text, it states, "He
gave some money to a blind man who sat there, asking for money, and then he got on the train
(Porter, 2)." Rather than keeping this money, Jimmy gives it to a poor, blind man. This blind man
will likely never give anything back to Jimmy, yet Jimmy gives him some of his money anyway.
Because of this second kind act, Jimmy shows that he truly is good. If I were in that situation and I
were freed from jail for the first time in years, I would (unfortunately) not give any of my money to
the blind man. I would keep that money to spend on self–indulgement. ... Show more content on
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He passes the ultimate test of bravery, skill, and empathy, overseen by Ben Price. He risks being
caught and prosecuted, going back to jail after having a taste of freedom. In the text, it states the
following: "He pulled off his coat. With that act, Ralph D. Spencer passed away and Jimmy
Valentine took his place. 'Stand away from the door, all of you,' he commanded. He put his bag on
the table, and opened it flat. From that time on, he seemed not to know that anyone else was near.
Quickly he laid the shining strange tools on the table. The others watched as if they had lost the
power to move. In a minute Jimmy was at work on the door. In ten minutes– faster than he had ever
done it before–he had the door open (Porter, 7–8)." This heroic act shows that Jimmy has an
excellent mix of bravery and

Loyalty In A Retrieved Reformation And After Twenty Years...
The short short stories "A Retrieved Reformation" and "After Twenty Years" written by O.Henry has
a theme of loyalty. Loyalty is staying true and being willing to sacrifice your own self interests for
the sake of whoever, or whatever you are loyal to. Most of O.Henry's characters display loyalty,
making it easy to see the common theme amongst his stories. The theme of loyalty is present in the
short story "After Twenty Years." The two main characters are friends, but while one of the friends
named Silky Bob is loyal to his friend Jimmy Wells, Jimmy was more loyal to his job. "I (Silky
Bob) know Jimmy will meet me here if he's alive, for he always was the truest, staunchest old chap
in the world." This quote took place when Silky Bob had hope

Jimmy Valentine A Retrieved Reformation
The short story "A Retrieved Reformation" is an interesting story about a man named Ralph D.
Spencer or known as Jimmy Valentine. The story is about a safe cracking man who goes to jail. The
man who wrote this book was actually in jail while writing this. He published his stories under the
name "O'Henry". Most of his stories have unexpected endings. By looking at O'Henry's " A
Retrieved Reformation" one can see that the truth about Jimmy Valentine a safe cracker is really not
that bad at heart. Jimmy Valentine, a very smart criminal, who cracks safes for a living. He gets out
of jail within three months. (Pg 42). He outsmart the security and takes a turn in the story. He was
not a bad person at heart, but made some bad decisions in his life.

The short story "A Retrieved Reformation" has an interesting sequence of events in which the main
character, Jimmy Valentine develops as a character, as well as a person. Furthermore, Jimmy's
character progresses because of the influence of Annabel Adams and Ben Price. To start, Jimmy is
released from prison after serving ten months of a four–year sentence. He was released due to a
governor's pardon. Soon thereafter, Jimmy returned to his home to retrieve his safe–cracking tools.
A week after his release, there was a bank robbery in Richmond, Indiana. In addition, there were
more bank vault burglaries. For example, in Jefferson City, Jimmy stole five thousand dollars. Due
to this, Ben Price, the detective that imprisoned Jimmy, was summoned

Jimmy Valentine In A Retrieved Reform
In the story A Retrieved Reform by O. Henry Jimmy, Valentine has gone from a bank robber to a
hero. Jimmy Valentine was a safe cracker and a bank robber, but after he finds a girl he likes he has
to change his name and change his ways. He opens a shoe store and starts a new life. The girl he
wanted to marry had a niece that got stuck in a bank vault so Jimmy breaks her out. Jimmy
Valentine was a changed man, because he did not rob any safes for a year, he started a business and
made a honest living, and he saved his future niece who was trapped in a bank vault. Jimmy
Valentine did not rob a single safe for a year. He moved to a new town and did not rob anyone
because he wanted to open a business in this town, so if they knew he was a bank

A tree affected by the Emerald Ash Borer often looks unsuspecting and unmarred; only when you
peel back the bark from the infested ash, do you see the damaged inside. Jimmy Valentine, also
known as Ralph Spencer, was the metaphorical rotting ash tree in the story "A Retrieved
Reformation" by O. Henry. Jimmy was a con–man, pardoned by the Governor. After Valentine got
out of the slammer, he continued his way of life before jail, manipulating and cracking bank vaults.
That is, until he met Annabel Adams. Jimmy had appeared to have changed for her under the
persona of Ralph Spencer and, for once, he made an honest living as a shoe–shop owner in the small
town of Elmore, Arkansas. But, as with the ash tree, not all was as it seemed. Annabel's father ...
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Henry purposely included symbolism into "A Retrieved Reformation" in the form of Jimmy's
suitcase of burglary tools. The suitcase symbolizes Ralph Spencer's past as Jimmy Valentine.
Carrying it around with him and refusing to throw it out, Ralph was remembering the glories of his
past life, holding on to it because he didn't want to let it go. Eventually, even if at one point he had
changed, he would have given in to his temptation of getting back into his glory days. Jimmy
"...opened this [his suitcase] and gazed fondly at the finest set of burglar's tools in the East." (Henry
2). Jimmy would not have given up this life of crime and manipulation for anything; even if he had
to change his name and pretend to love someone he had no interest in. The pride he felt while his
looked at those instruments of destruction went unequalled to the love Annabel could give him with
the tools the clear winner. Not only does the suitcase symbolize how Jimmy/Ralph was an infested
ash tree, but the man was using them too. "Jimmy Valentine and his suit case climbed out of the mail
hack..." (Henry 2). If Jimmy continued his cons after jail, what says he wouldn't after he found the
'love of his life'? Like the rotting ash tree he was, Jimmy was perfect on the outside, but in the core,
who he really was, was always the

Malala Yousafzai: The Bravest Girl In The World By Steve Jobs
According to the statement, "The ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world
are the ones who do," the speaker, Steve Jobs, was referring to the theme of change. This quote
means that even those who are looked down upon by others can impact the world. This statement is
valid. The reason for this assertion is due to the fact that people who are different and have far–
fetched ideas are still capable of achieving greatness. Rebels are not always bad; in fact, their
actions can promote positive change. The two works of literature that support this perspective are
called "A Retrieved Reformation" by O. Henry and "Malala Yousafzai: The Bravest Girl in the
World" by Parade Magazine.
The statement made by Steve Jobs directly connects to the ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net
...
Furthermore, the character, Malala Yousafzai, could also be seen as a rebel for positive change.
There is textual evidence in support of the statement made by Steve Jobs. One example is how
Malala fought for education for girls. The text states, "She was only 11 when she took on the
Taliban, demanding that girls be given full access to school," (Parade 1). Malala was brave enough
to not only want a change, but to take action. The final example from this text that further supports
the meaning of the quote is how Malala was willing to sacrifice herself for her cause. The text states,
"It would be better to plead, 'Okay, shoot me, but first listen to me. What you are doing is wrong. I'm
not against you personally. I just want every girl to go to school,'" (Parade 3). Malala spoke up
against the Taliban, making her a rebel. Her actions promoted positive change, because she wanted
girls to have the same education rights as other students. Thusly, the quote by Steve Jobs relates to
"Malala Yousafzai: The Bravest Girl in the

A Retrieved Reformation By O Henry
District Common Assessment
Around 400,000 robberies occur every year (fbi.gov). In the short story "A Retrieved Reformation"
By: O. Henry, Jimmy Valentine was a criminal who moved to Elmore, a small town in Arkansas,
looking for a fresh start. He changed his name and fell in love with the bank owner's daughter.
Valentine had a detective looking for him, the detective's name is Ben Price. Jimmy was going to
give up his robbing bank tools so he would be able to change for his fiance. On his way to give
away the tools Jimmy went to the bank to observe the new vault, a child got trapped in the vault and
Jimmy used his bank robbing tools to save the child. Because Jimmy Valentine wanted to be
different for his soon to be wife, was going to give ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
He changed his name when he first came to town so the cops would not be able to find him also so
no one would suspect he was a robber. This argument is invalid because the detective Ben Price
found Jimmy and thought that he was a changed man so Ben did not arrest him. In the letter Jimmy
lied about going to Little Rock to give away his tools he actually was going to rob another bank.
There is no evidence to support that Jimmy was going to Little Rock to rob another bank. Finally
Jimmy did not change for Annabel he only acted different so she would like Jimmy and he would be
able to get close to the bank to rob it. Jimmy fell in love with Annabel the first time he saw her,
Annabel thought fondly of him so Jimmy was not only acting different to rob the bank. All of these
arguments can not be supported by evidence so Jimmy was able to change.
Since Jimmy Valentine wanted to change for his fiance, was going to give away his bank robbing
tools and changed his name so he could have a fresh start, Jimmy Valentine is a new, changed man.
Jimmy Valentine did receive a fresh start he opened his own shoe shop, the shoe shop prospered. He
also got engaged to Annabel Adams. Finally Jimmy saved a girl who was trapped in a vault. About
only 2% of robberies each year are bank robberies

Differences Between Stanley Williams And Retrieved...
The two pieces "Stanley Williams" and "Retrieved Reformation" prove your past actions do not
make you who you are, and it is possible to leave your past completely behind. Stanley Williams
was a leader of the Crips in the article "Stanley Williams" changed by writing books for children and
teens telling them the dangers of gang life. Stanley Williams who has changed his past, seems to
have changed for the better by warning kids and teens about gang life. He has written nine books
and won one Noble Book Award. In life people may encounter bad experiences, this does not mean
you have to live by your past actions, you can always change for the better. In the article "A
Retrieved Reformation" Jimmy, the main character used to be a crook, but at

Humanism and the Renaissance + Protestant Reformation =...
Humanism and the Renaissance + Protestant Reformation = Scientific Revolution
Kelly McCabe
CCM Summer Session III
Professor Pilant
Term Paper
CCM Summer Session III 2012
Early Modern European History
Term Paper
The later Middle Ages is characterized as a time of great transition and advancement, especially
pertaining to areas of politics, economics, art and intellect. A new trend towards the pursuit of new
knowledge and ideas first emerged in fifteenth century Renaissance Italy. This new area of intellect
marks the emergence of humanism, which essentially came to be the defining characteristic leading
up to the Scientific Revolution in the eighteenth ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Erasmus "insisted that the dialectic method of the academic theologians had produced a theological
science that concentrated on trivial, abstruse questions of little or no real value to the needs of the
church" (Nauert, 431).[vii] This argument became the basis for much of Erasmus' highly esteemed,
accredited work; he was "determined to defend [his] status as orthodox Catholic" (Nauert, 431).[viii]
Soon, modern humanists greatest opposition was the church. Many criticized Erasmus, believing
that he "lacked theological training and hence had neither a legal nor an intellectual right to speak
and publish on questions involving theology and the Bible" (Nauert, 431).[ix] Until this point in my
discussion thus far, not much opposition has been mentioned. It is very important and essential to
note that this new topic of new knowledge created extreme amounts of tension, ultimately
culminating in the Protestant Reformation.
At the same as scholars such as Erasmus, Bacon and Galileo emerged, "scholastic theologians
arrogantly sat back and issued condemnations," which greatly hindered the advancement of intellect
(Nauert, 431).[x] Clearly established thus far was the recently renewed desire for new knowledge; in

response, many new education establishments received great support and ideas began to circulate. In
order for the continuing and pursuit of the ever evolving goals of humanists, there needed to be
some change that would allow for this. This is one

A Retrieved Reformation O Henry
In the story A Retrieved Reformation by O. Henry, Jimmy Valentine is an infamous and highly
skilled bank robber. When Jimmy moves to Elmore, he decides it is time to give up bank robbing
and become a reinvented and better person. Jimmy Valentine is erased and Ralph Spencer, the well–
respected, honest shoe shop owner is the man that is written over the old Jimmy. The story conveys
that people can change, and being able to accept people when they change is very generous and is a
sophisticated thing to do.
Jimmy made a living from robbing banks and people all over the country wanted to capture him.
Whenever he was placed in jail, he would always get bailed out shortly afterwards. Ben Price, a
detective who had been trying to catch Jimmy for years, tracked him down to Elmore. "'Going to
marry the banker's ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
One device used is an allusion. "Mr. Ralph Spencer, the phoenix that arose from Jimmy Valentine's
ashes." O. Henry compares Jimmy to a phoenix– a great, powerful, positive thing that came from a
dishonest crook that really didn't deserve to be as successful as he was. Meeting Annabel caused
Jimmy to want to make this transformation because he knew that an honest girl would never fall in
love with a robber because she wouldn't be able to trust him.
Another literary device used by O. Henry is irony. Ben Price let Jimmy go even after he saw Jimmy
doing the thing that was the reason Ben was searching for him in the first place. Ben witnessed
Jimmy breaking into a bank, something Ben never imagined he would witness. The difference was,
Jimmy had changed his entire outlook on life and he had different values in life. He no longer
valued money and possessions obtained illegally; he wouldn't accept capital unless he had earned it.
Ralph Spencer valued honesty and hard work. O. Henry's surprise ending is a clever way used to
develop the theme of the

Essay On A Retrieved Reformation By O Henry
Love can change the view of everything for everyone. In the story, "A Retrieved Reformation" by O.
Henry, Jimmy Valentine was trying to live a moral life. But after planning to do more crime, love
changed his life. Ending his life of crime as well. Jimmy Valentine was truly dedicated to living a
moral life by ending his safe–cracking career, saving a life though, it would cost his career, and
being in a relationship. One strong detail to prove Jimmy was trying to live a moral life was that he
quit cracking safes. A quote to prove this is "He opened a shoe–store and secured a good run of
trade." (O. Henry, pg 3). By creating this new business, Jimmy could forget about his old self.
Another quote to prove this point is "...I've quit the old business a year ago." (O. Henry, pg 4). In
Jimmy's letter to his old friend, he informs him that he has quit the old job of cracking safes. A final
quote to prove this correct is, "After I get married I'm going to sell out and go West, where there
won't be so much danger of having old scores brought up against me." (O. ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
One detail to prove this theory right is, "In a minute Jimmy's pet drill was biting smoothly through
the steel door." (O Henry, pg 6). After seeing a girl being trapped in a bank vault with no person near
the town that could save her, Jimmy knew what he had to do even if it would cost his good life.
Another reason that proves this right is, "He set his suitcase on the table and opened it out flat." (O
Henry, pg 5). Jimmy opened the case of tools clearly recognisable by Ben meaning he was going to
sent to jail after. A final quote to prove this is, "Got around at last, have you? Well let's go, I don't
know that it makes much of a difference now." (O Henry, pg 6) Jimmy knows he was caught clearly
going to jail, hence him admitting to his crimes. As you can see, Jimmy is living a moral

Should Jimmy Valentine Stay Free?
Should Jimmy Valentine stay free? I think that Jimmy Valentine should have freedom. In the story
he changed his life around as he fell in love and realized what he has done. He has became a better
person as the story went on. The first reason Jimmy Valentine should stay free is that he stopped
robbing. In the letter he sent to his old friend Sullivan he decided to get rid of all of his tools and
started over. He also stated in the letter that he wrote that he's living a better life and fell in love.
This means that now he realizes what the real world is he will stop robbing and start new. The
second reason he should stay free is that he is making an honest living. He starts a shoe business and
the shoe shop was doing

Should Jimmy Valentine Stay Free?
I feel that Jimmy should stay free .In the story, that I read there was a man named Jimmy Valentine.
Jimmy was in prison ten times because he had broken in banks. The ending was left open with a cop
telling Jimmy he knew that he had broken into three safes. In my opinion Jimmy Valentine should
be let go free in the end. I think that Jimmy should stay free. The first reason he stay free is because
he stopped robbing banks. In the story it said that he was going to sell his own tools because he gave
up on cracking open safes. Even though he broke 3 safes open before he stopped robbing banks. The
second reason is that he made an honest living. It says in the book that he was going to be married.
The woman he was going to marry was Annabel Adams.

Imagine yourself as a person who all you can do in life is to break into banks. Jimmy Valentine is in
the same situation. Jimmy Valentine is a main character in a short story by O. Henry called A
Retrieved Reformation. Jimmy Valentine always broke into banks, which was a habit for Jimmy.
Jimmy's outside friends always found a way to get Jimmy out of jail. When Jimmy Valentine was
released out of jail, Jimmy went back to robbing banks. One day something changed about Jimmy.
Jimmy went to Elmore to rob another bank, Jimmy suddenly saw a girl. Their eyes met and it was
love at first sight. Suddenly, Jimmy Valentine was truly determined on living a moral life because
Jimmy Valentine fell in love, changed his name to Ralph D. Spencer, and Jimmy ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
Spencer. "Jimmy went to the Planters Hotel, registered as Ralph D. Spencer, and engaged a room."
This detail shows the reader that Jimmy changed his name because he did not want to be caught by
the investigator who was looking for Jimmy. As seen in when Ben Price said, "I guess you're
mistaken, Mr. Spencer," he said. "Don't believe I recognize you. Your buggy's waiting for you ain't
it?" This quote shows the reader that Ben Price realized that Ralph Spencer was actually trying to
become a better person and living a moral life. The community known Jimmy as Ralph D. Spencer
seen in, "At the end of the year, the situation of Mr. Ralph Spencer was this: he had won the respect
of the community." This detail shows the reader that Ralph Spencer now won respect of the
community.
Jimmy Valentine was truly determined on living a moral life because Jimmy starts his own business.
"... His own shoe–shop was flourishing." This detail shows the reader that Jimmy got his own
business up and running. "He said he had come to Elmore to look for a location to go into business."
This quote shows the reader that Jimmy is looking for a location to start his own business. "I've got
a nice store. I'm making an honest living, and I'm going to marry the most finest girl on earth two
weeks from now." This detail shows the reader that Jimmy made a commitment on not robbing any
more

Jimmy Valentine
"A Retrieving Reformation" by O. Henry, details the story of the transformation of Jimmy Valentine
from a criminal to a respectable man, taking place around the early twentieth century. Jimmy
Valentine was released from prison early, due to outside connections. Jimmy was meant to serve a
four year sentence (which he only served ten months of) because he had robbed multiple banks.
Against the warden's advice, upon his release, Jimmy resumes his profession, and robs banks in
Richmond, Logansport, and Jefferson City. A detective, Ben Price, was assigned the case of the bank
robberies, and recognized the style as that of Jimmy. Meanwhile, Jimmy was now in Elmore,
Arkansas. While there, Jimmy notices a gorgeous young woman enter the bank, and in his
awestruck state, he waits outside the bank and makes small talk with a boy. ... Show more content
on Helpwriting.net ...
Jimmy, now known as Ralph D. Spencer, started a shoe business, because the town did not have one,
and he had learned how to make shoes while incarcerated. After a year in Elmore, Ralph was
thriving; his shoe store was doing impeccably, and we was engaged to be married to Abigail in two
weeks' time. Ralph had plans to travel down to St. Louis, and give his old burglary tools to an old
friend, who was still in the business, however, first he had to stop by the bank with Abigail, her
father, and her married sister with her two little girls. The bank has just installed a new, robber proof
safe. The two little girls had been playing by the safe, and the elder of the two, who was only nine,
pushed her younger sister, Agatha, into the safe, and shut the door. Everyone started to panic, which
attracted the attention of Ben Price, who had found Jimmy and was ready to arrest

A Retrieved Reformation By O Henry
The passage" A Retrieved Reformation" by O. Henry tells the story of a man who just got released
from jail, because he steals from banks. This man, Jimmy, goes to a small town, in Arkansa, and
falls in love with Annabel Adams. He changes his name to Ralph and becomes a shoe maker. Until
he rescues Agatha from a bank vault. This story teaches the reader people can change people. After
getting out of jail Jimmy heads to Arkansa. He plans to continue his regular life of robbing with his
friends, but something stops him. He catches a view of a beautiful woman named Annabel. O. Henry
describes, "Jimmy Valentine looked into her eyes, forgot what he was, and became another man."
The author put this detail in the story to tell the reader what Jimmy was feeling when he saw
Annabel for the first time. Also, it shows that Annabel changed him on the inside, so far. ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The passage explains, "He opened a shoe–store and secured a good run of trade." Flipping his
lifestyle from a robber to a shoe salesman was necessary for Jimmy to do if he wanted Annabel to
like him back. That is not the only thing he changes about his life style. The author writes, "Mr.
Ralph Spencer, the phoenix that arose from Jimmy Valentine's ashes–– ashes left by the flame of a
sudden and alternative attack of love–– remained in Elmore, and prospered." Jimmy Valentine
changed his name to Ralph Spencer because Jimmy wanted to demolish the existence of Jimmy
Valentine and start fresh. He changed his name when he met

The Transformational Century And Historical Sources And...
1. Why is the 15th century called the transformational century and what historical sources and tools
can be used to verify this description! Please discuss fully.
While the 15th century had an abundance of things that collectively caused it to be called the
transformational century, such as the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the rise of the Byzantine Empire,
and the use of guns to fight battles, I believe that the printing press makes a strong statement about
the change in society. The reason the printing press stands out is it was a major change to how
information was exchanged. Prior to the invention of the printing press, it's estimated that only about
10% men/1% women were literate (Willis, 2015). However, in 1674 literacy rates were 60% for
men and 30% for women (Harvard, n.d.). This increase in literacy rates greatly aided the
Renaissance age by allowing information to be spread much more rapidly than previously possible.
Just as the printing press encouraged the renaissance age, the renaissance age encouraged the use of
the printing press. This can be seen by the rapid increase in the number of towns that had printing
presses in use, around 236 towns had their own print shops (Maxfield, 2009). This also caused
ideologies to spread much faster than, exposing people to previously unknown ways. Which in turn
allowed people to develop their own new ideas. This increased desire for knowledge is the heart
why the 15th century is called the transformational century. There

3rd quarter performance event by:Jmercy People can change drastically in a split second. Jimmy
Valentine was a safe cracker stealing people's money. Jimmy was caught by Ben Price a detective.
Jimmy quickly got out of jail and changed his life when Jimmy got out, Jimmy became a good man.
Jimmy Valentine was trying to lead a moral life because Jimmy demonstrated compassion,
responsibility, and honesty. Jimmy was trying to lead a moral life because, Jimmy demonstrated
compassion. Jimmy gave a man on the streat money. Jimmy gave the man money and that helped
the man tremendously for the man wanted to get a bulldog. Now that is compassion. Jimmy was
nice to everyone and was generally considered a sociable man. When someone is nice it shows that
that person is trying to be moral and compassionate. Being kind is what compassion is all about.
Jimmy never took advantage of Annebel or, Mr.Adams. Those actions show compassion by being
kind and not using people and using people is just wrong. Jimmy was kind and good Jimmy made a
solid attempt on leading a moral life. ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
"Jimmy opened a shoe–store and secured a good run of trade." This is a quote from the story
retrieved Reformation. That quote shows that Jimmy was demonstrating responsibility and was not
taking other people's money. In Jimmy's letter to his friend Jimmy wrote that Jimmy wouldn't do
another crooked thing for the whole world. This shows Jimmy had the responsibility to take care and
be with Annebel. Jimmy saved Agatha's life. this act of responsibility is morally right he saved the
girl's life when Jimmy thought it would get himself in serious trouble. Jimmy was morally

Essay On Jimmy Valentine
Can a professional burglar turn his life around and become a good person? Jimmy Valentine could.
Jimmy Valentine was a professional burglar who got caught and was sent to jail. After getting out of
jail, Jimmy locked eyes with a fine woman, who then went into a bank. Jimmy collared a boy who
also was walking into a bank and found out the woman's name: Annabel Adams. After locking eyes
with the woman, Jimmy became a changed man. Jimmy changed his name to Ralph D. Spencer and
changed his personality altogether. At the end of the year, the situation was this: Jimmy won
Annabel's heart, he ran a successful shoe store, and he had won the respect of the community. Two
weeks before getting married with Annabel, Mr. Adams, Annabel's father, was showing Ralph the
new safe that he put into his bank. Agatha and May, Annabel's nieces, were fascinated by the shiny
safe and all of its gears. Unfortunately, May had seen Mr. Adams open and close the safe and
learned how to do it. Agatha then got trapped in the safe. There was no combination for the lock of
the safe, so there was no way that Agatha was able to get out, except Ralph D. Spencer was there.
With no hesitation, The soul of Ralph D. Spencer left and Jimmy Valentine took his place. Jimmy
opened up his suitcase, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
One of the good deeds was giving money to the homeless. Specifically, it was a blind man living on
the sidewalk. Jimmy gave money to another person too. The other person Jimmy gave money to was
a boy that he collared after seeing Annabel Adams for the first time. After seeing Annabel, Jimmy
asked for information on her, and gave the boy dimes at random intervals as Jimmy was given
information. The best "good deed" Jimmy did was when Agatha, Annabel's niece, got trapped in a
locked safe. Using his burglary tools, he was able to get Agatha out of the locked safe in ten
minutes. With all of the good deeds Jimmy did, there is no wonder why Jimmy was living a
dedicated

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