Themes
Identity and Transformation
Transformation and identity lie at the center of “A Retrieved Reformation,” as Jimmy Valentine shifts from prisoner “Valentine, 9762” to “Mr. James Valentine,” master safecracker, to the upstanding businessman Ralph D. Spencer, and back again, before settling on the identity that offers the happy future he’s looking for.
When Jimmy is released from prison, “Valentine, 9762, was chronicled on the books, ‘Pardoned by Governor,’ and Mr. James Valentine walked out into the sunshine” (1). As soon as possible, Jimmy changes from a prison-issue cheap suit to his own tailored and well-fitting clothes to reflect his return to a persona with charm, charisma, and plenty of connections among powerful people. That aspect of his personality is so well-known that police detective Ben Price refers to him as “Dandy Jim Valentine” (2).
Just like clothing, love has the power to transform one’s identity. When he arrives in the little town of Elmore, Jimmy sees a young lady crossing the street. Upon looking into her eyes, he “forgot what he was, and became another man” (2). The man he becomes is Ralph D. Spencer, up and coming businessman, who opens a shoe store and gets engaged to the lovely Plus, gain access to 8,650+ more expert-written Study Guides. Including features:
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Related Titles
By O. Henry
