“The Barber” – unpublished story by Flannery O’Connor

“Wildcat” – first story by Flannery O’Connor

“Wildcat“(Read full story in the link) is one of the first short stories authored by Flannery O’Connor. It is one of the six short stories which she had included in in her master’s thesis The Geranium: A Collection of Short Stories. The story sadly was published posthumously in the famous periodical, The North American Review, in 1970

The story goes on about the titular character “Old Gabriel,” a blind, elderly African American man, who is afraid of a wildcat. He says that he can supposedly smell the wildcat and sense its presence. The background behind the story is that Old Gabriel can remember a story from his childhood about a dangerous wildcat who killed someone he knew. The paranoia overtakes him and and does not want to be left alone since he fears that it will attack him and kill him. The story portrays Gabriel’s struggles with his impending death. I would rate this story a 7 out of 10 for its well-developed character.

You can read the full story of the Geranium for free here

“A Stroke of Good Fortune”

“A Late Encounter with the Enemy”

“A Late Encounter with the Enemy” is a short story written by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative centers around an aging retired general named General Sash, who is invited to receive an honorary degree from his former university. As the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that General Sash is a delusional and bitter man, obsessed with his former military glory and desperate for recognition.

The story explores themes of mortality, the disillusionment of aging, and the juxtaposition between past achievements and present reality. General Sash’s encounter with the truth of his own insignificance serves as a powerful critique of pride and the vanity of worldly accomplishments.

O’Connor’s skilled storytelling and sharp characterization make “A Late Encounter with the Enemy” a thought-provoking and insightful read. The story highlights the fragility of human pride and the desperate attempts to cling to a fading sense of significance. I would rate this story a 9 out of 10 for its profound exploration of human nature and its skillful execution.

“The Life You Save May Be Your Own”

“The Life You Save May Be Your Own” is a well-known short story written by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative revolves around a drifter named Mr. Shiftlet who encounters an old woman named Lucynell Crater and her deaf daughter, Lucynell. Seeking shelter and work, Mr. Shiftlet strikes a deal with Lucynell Crater, offering to repair her old car in exchange for food and a place to stay.

As the story progresses, Mr. Shiftlet’s true character is gradually revealed. He proves to be manipulative and self-serving, showing no genuine care for the well-being of Lucynell or her daughter. In a twist of events, Mr. Shiftlet abandons Lucynell and takes off with her car, leaving her in a vulnerable state.

“The Life You Save May Be Your Own” explores themes of deception, moral bankruptcy, and the consequences of one’s actions. O’Connor skillfully captures the complexity of human nature and portrays flawed characters who wrestle with their own motivations and desires. The story offers a dark and cautionary reflection on the nature of trust and the consequences of misplaced faith. Given its compelling storytelling and profound exploration of human flaws, I would rate “The Life You Save May Be Your Own” a solid 8 out of 10.

“The River”

“The River” is a poignant short story by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative follows a young boy named Harry, who comes from a troubled home and finds solace in attending a traveling preacher’s revival meeting. Fascinated by the preacher’s promises of salvation and redemption, Harry yearns for a transformative experience.

Driven by his desire for a profound change, Harry ventures to a nearby river where he hopes to achieve spiritual rebirth through baptism. However, the story takes a tragic turn as Harry’s limited understanding of the religious ritual leads to a disastrous outcome.

“The River” explores themes of innocence, faith, and the limitations of religious experience. O’Connor masterfully captures the struggles of a young boy searching for meaning and salvation in a world marked by sin and suffering. The story serves as a commentary on the complexities of religious faith and the dangers of misinterpreting spiritual concepts.

With its powerful symbolism and thought-provoking exploration of faith, “The River” deserves a score of 9 out of 10. O’Connor’s skillful portrayal of human longing and the collision of innocence with harsh reality leaves a lasting impact on readers.

“The Displaced Person”

“The Displaced Person” is a compelling and thought-provoking short story by Flannery O’Connor. Set on a farm in the American South, the narrative explores the arrival of a displaced person named Mr. Guizac, a Polish refugee who seeks employment on the farm. As Mr. Guizac’s presence disrupts the established dynamics of the community, tensions arise among the various characters.

O’Connor delves into themes of prejudice, fear, and the human capacity for compassion. The story exposes the deep-rooted prejudices and biases held by the characters, particularly towards Mr. Guizac and his family. Through vivid characterization and insightful dialogue, O’Connor highlights the complexities of human nature and the barriers that prevent genuine understanding and empathy.

“The Displaced Person” offers a stark examination of the human condition and the societal challenges faced by those who are perceived as different. It prompts readers to reflect on their own biases and the consequences of allowing prejudice to dictate their actions.

For its profound exploration of prejudice and its nuanced portrayal of complex characters, I would rate “The Displaced Person” a solid 9 out of 10. O’Connor’s powerful storytelling and ability to tackle sensitive subjects make this story a standout piece in her body of work.

“A Circle in the Fire”

“A Circle in the Fire” is a short story by Flannery O’Connor. Set in a small town, the narrative revolves around Mrs. Cope, a widowed landlady, and her tenants. The story introduces a group of characters, each with their own personal struggles and flaws, whose lives intersect in unexpected ways.

As a raging forest fire threatens the town, tensions rise, and the true nature of the characters is revealed. O’Connor explores themes of pride, judgment, and the consequences of one’s actions. Mrs. Cope, in particular, grapples with her own prejudices and self-righteousness as she navigates the chaos of the fire.

Through her skilled characterization and vivid imagery, O’Connor delves into the complexities of human nature and the potential for redemption. “A Circle in the Fire” serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive power of pride and the importance of empathy and compassion.

For its evocative storytelling and insightful exploration of human flaws, I would rate “A Circle in the Fire” a solid 8.5 out of 10. O’Connor’s ability to capture the essence of her characters and present moral dilemmas in a compelling manner makes this story a thought-provoking read.

“A Temple of the Holy Ghost”

“A Temple of the Holy Ghost” is a captivating short story by Flannery O’Connor. Set in a Catholic school, the narrative revolves around two young girls, the narrator and her cousin, who attend a carnival and encounter a sideshow featuring a hermaphrodite. The girls are fascinated and disturbed by the sight, and their perceptions of sexuality and identity are challenged.

O’Connor skillfully explores themes of sexuality, religious faith, and the nature of grace. The story raises questions about societal norms, the complexity of human nature, and the role of spirituality in understanding and accepting others. Through the girls’ innocent yet profound observations, O’Connor prompts readers to reflect on their own preconceived notions and biases.

With her characteristic wit and insight, O’Connor presents a complex and nuanced examination of gender and identity. “A Temple of the Holy Ghost” invites readers to confront the discomfort and uncertainty that can arise when confronted with the unfamiliar.

For its thought-provoking themes and O’Connor’s skillful storytelling, I would rate “A Temple of the Holy Ghost” a solid 9 out of 10. The story’s exploration of identity and acceptance is both timely and timeless, and O’Connor’s ability to tackle sensitive subjects with nuance and depth is commendable.

“Greenleaf”

“Greenleaf” is a compelling short story written by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative centers around Mrs. May, a self-righteous and prideful woman who owns a farm. Mrs. May holds a deep resentment towards her neighbor, Mrs. Greenleaf, and her unruly sons, believing them to be uncouth and unrefined.

However, Mrs. May’s perception of the Greenleafs is challenged when she witnesses a series of strange events involving a bull on her property. Through these unsettling incidents, O’Connor explores themes of grace, redemption, and the transformative power of suffering.

As the story unfolds, Mrs. May experiences a moment of profound revelation, ultimately leading to a drastic change in her perspective. Through her encounters with the Greenleafs, she is confronted with her own moral shortcomings and learns to confront her pride.

“Greenleaf” showcases O’Connor’s mastery of characterization and her ability to delve into the complexities of human nature. With vivid imagery and a powerful narrative arc, the story serves as a poignant exploration of spiritual awakening and the potential for personal growth.

For its thought-provoking themes, engaging storytelling, and O’Connor’s skillful portrayal of character transformation, I would rate “Greenleaf” a solid 8.5 out of 10. It exemplifies O’Connor’s unique style and leaves readers with a lasting impression and a deeper understanding of the human condition.

“A View of the Woods”

“A View of the Woods” is a compelling short story written by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative centers around Mrs. May, a wealthy widow, and her troubled relationship with her grandson, Mary Fortune. Mrs. May’s son-in-law, Mr. Fortune, plans to sell a piece of their land, which holds sentimental value for Mrs. May. As tensions rise within the family, Mrs. May becomes increasingly fixated on maintaining control and preserving her perceived dignity.

Through vivid descriptions and rich symbolism, O’Connor explores themes of power, generational conflict, and the destructive nature of pride. As the story unfolds, Mrs. May’s desire for control clashes with the desires and independence of Mary Fortune, leading to a tragic climax that exposes the depths of human flaws and the consequences of unchecked hubris.

“Mrs. May’s insistence on preserving her self-image and the land she values serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the need for humility and empathy in human relationships.”

For its insightful exploration of complex human dynamics and its skillful portrayal of flawed characters, I would rate “A View of the Woods” a solid 8.5 out of 10. O’Connor’s masterful storytelling and her ability to probe the depths of human nature make this story a compelling read that lingers in the mind long after the final page.

Flanner O Connor A View of The Woods free PDF

“The Enduring Chill”

“The Enduring Chill” is a captivating short story by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative follows Asbury, a young writer who returns to his family’s farm after falling ill. Asbury is consumed by a sense of self-importance and yearns for recognition of his talent as a writer.

The story explores themes of pride, redemption, and the clash between reality and idealism. Asbury’s encounter with a mysterious and enigmatic character, the “stranger,” forces him to confront the limitations of his own aspirations and the emptiness of his life.

Through richly drawn characters and sharp dialogue, O’Connor delves into the complexities of human nature and the struggles of the creative spirit. “The Enduring Chill” serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of hubris and the transformative power of humility.

O’Connor’s skillful storytelling and incisive examination of human flaws make “The Enduring Chill” a thought-provoking read. I would rate this story a solid 8 out of 10 for its exploration of the human condition and its ability to provoke introspection and reflection.

The Enduring Chill by Flannery O’Connor – Free PDF

“The Comforts of Home”

. The narrative revolves around Thomas, a middle-aged man who lives with his overbearing and controlling mother, Mrs. McIntyre, on their rural farm. Thomas is resentful of his circumstances and yearns for independence and freedom.

The story explores themes of power dynamics, identity, and the struggle for personal agency. When an escaped convict seeks refuge on their property, Thomas’s interactions with the outsider lead to a confrontation that challenges his perceptions and forces him to confront his own sense of self.

Through her skillful characterization and sharp dialogue, O’Connor delves into the complexities of family relationships and the psychological toll of living under oppressive circumstances. “The Comforts of Home” offers a profound examination of the human condition and the consequences of suppressed desires and stifled individuality.

O’Connor’s ability to capture the nuances of human behavior and her exploration of themes such as control, guilt, and the yearning for freedom make “The Comforts of Home” a compelling and thought-provoking read. I would rate this story a solid 9 out of 10 for its depth, psychological insight, and O’Connor’s signature style of Southern Gothic storytelling.

“Everything That Rises Must Converge”

“Everything That Rises Must Converge” is a poignant and thought-provoking short story by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative follows Julian, a young man who accompanies his mother to her weekly bus rides to the YWCA. The story explores themes of race, social change, and the complexities of familial relationships.

Set in the racially divided American South, the story examines the dynamics between Julian and his mother as they navigate their differing views on race and equality. Through vivid characterization and sharp dialogue, O’Connor delves into the contradictions and tensions within their relationship.

As the story unfolds, a series of encounters with a black woman and her son challenge Julian’s preconceived notions and force him to confront his own prejudices. O’Connor skillfully presents a nuanced exploration of racial and social dynamics, exposing the deep-rooted biases and the potential for growth and understanding.

“Everything That Rises Must Converge” is a powerful examination of the complexities of human nature and the societal changes of the time. O’Connor’s ability to capture the subtle nuances of interpersonal relationships and her exploration of moral dilemmas make this story a compelling and thought-provoking read.

For its profound themes, well-drawn characters, and O’Connor’s masterful storytelling, I would rate “Everything That Rises Must Converge” a solid 9 out of 10. It is a testament to O’Connor’s ability to tackle sensitive subjects with depth and nuance, leaving a lasting impact on readers.

“The Lame Shall Enter First”

“The Lame Shall Enter First” is a powerful and thought-provoking short story written by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative centers around Sheppard, a well-intentioned social worker who is determined to help troubled youths. Sheppard takes a special interest in Rufus, a young boy who is grieving the loss of his mother and struggling with delinquency.

The story explores themes of redemption, moral righteousness, and the complexity of human nature. Sheppard’s desire to save Rufus becomes an obsession that blinds him to the needs of his own neglected son, Norton. As Sheppard invests his energy in trying to reform Rufus, he neglects the emotional support and guidance that Norton desperately craves.

Through vivid characterization and powerful symbolism, O’Connor delves into the depths of human flaws and the consequences of misguided intentions. “The Lame Shall Enter First” raises questions about the nature of goodness, the limits of human intervention, and the importance of empathy and compassion.

O’Connor’s sharp prose and skillful portrayal of moral dilemmas make “The Lame Shall Enter First” a compelling and haunting read. I would rate this story a solid 9 out of 10 for its exploration of complex human dynamics, thought-provoking themes, and O’Connor’s ability to provoke introspection and reflection in the reader.

“Revelation”

“Revelation” is a powerful and provocative short story written by Flannery O’Connor. The narrative follows Mrs. Ruby Turpin, a self-righteous and opinionated woman who prides herself on her moral superiority. As she waits in a doctor’s office, a series of encounters with diverse individuals challenges her preconceived notions and forces her to confront her own hypocrisy.

Through vivid characterization and sharp dialogue, O’Connor explores themes of identity, race, and the complexities of human nature. Mrs. Turpin’s encounters, particularly with a young college student and a disturbed girl, lead to a moment of revelation that shatters her illusions of righteousness and exposes the depths of her own flaws.

“Revelation” serves as a profound examination of the human condition, the inherent biases within society, and the potential for grace and redemption. O’Connor’s ability to capture the intricacies of human behavior and her skillful use of irony make this story a compelling and thought-provoking read.

For its thought-provoking themes, incisive character development, and O’Connor’s signature style, I would rate “Revelation” a solid 9.5 out of 10. The story’s exploration of human fallibility and the transformative power of self-awareness makes it a standout in O’Connor’s body of work, leaving a lasting impact on readers.

“Parker’s Back”