# An Unsuccessful Experiment explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by O. Henry.

## What happens

An old colored preacher in Texas attempts to emulate the fiery preaching style of Rev. Sam Jones, but his harsh accusations against members of his congregation lead to a physical brawl instead of spiritual awakening.

## Themes in this chapter

### Humor and Irony

The preacher's attempt to adopt a more confrontational style backfires humorously, resulting in a chaotic brawl.

## Character check-ins

### Old Uncle Jake

The old colored preacher who tries Sam Jones's style

## Key lines

> My dearly belubbed, I has been preachin’ to you fo’ mo’ dan five years, and de grace ob God hab failed to percolate in yo’ obstreperous hearts.

My dearly beloved, I have been preaching to you for more than five years, and the grace of God has failed to penetrate your stubborn hearts.

_The preacher opens his sermon with a complaint about the congregation's lack of spiritual progress._

> You is all boun’ for de fire ob destruction. You am all nothin’ but vile sweepins ob de yearth.

You are all bound for the fire of destruction. You are nothing but vile sweepings of the earth.

_The preacher condemns the entire congregation as worthless and destined for hell._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se/chapters/an-unsuccessful-experiment
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se/chapters