# The Unprofitable Servant explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by O. Henry.

## What happens

The narrator reflects on how four newspaper men report the same incident in wildly different ways, then draws a parallel to the biblical parable of the talents. The story then focuses on Cliff McGowan, a gifted but untrained dancer, who is taken under the wing of professional dancer Del Delano (Crowley) to prepare for amateur night at Creary's Theatre, where his talent might finally be properly used.

## Themes in this chapter

### Ambition and Failure

The chapter contrasts the potential success of Mac McGowan's talent with the risk of wasting it, echoing the parable's warning about the unprofitable servant.

### Humor and Irony

The narrator humorously highlights the absurd discrepancies in newspaper reports of the same event, and the ironic twist that the 'unprofitable' servant is punished for not multiplying his talent.

## Character check-ins

### Mac McGowan

A gifted but self-taught dancer with raw talent; cousin of Cliff McGowan; coached by Del Delano for amateur night.

### Unknown Narrator

The first-person narrator who compares the differing newspaper accounts and introduces the parable of the talents.

## Key lines

> I am the richer by the acquaintance of four newspaper men. Singly, they are my encyclopedias, friends, mentors, and sometimes bankers.

I benefit greatly from knowing four journalists, each serving as a source of knowledge, companionship, guidance, and occasional financial support.

_The narrator introduces his four newspaper friends who report the same event differently._

> From him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.

Those who have nothing will lose even what little they possess.

_A biblical quote from the parable of the talents, used to underscore the theme of wasted potential._

> You've got the rottenest method and style of anybody I ever saw.

Your technique and presentation are the worst I've ever encountered.

_Del Delano criticizes Mac's dancing style, despite recognizing his underlying talent._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se/chapters/the-unprofitable-servant
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se/chapters