Short Fiction · Chapter
An Unsuccessful Experiment explained
An old colored preacher in Texas attempts to emulate the fiery preaching style of Rev.
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.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it captures the precise moment the protagonist’s humor shifts f…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Humor and Irony
The preacher's attempt to adopt a more confrontational style backfires humorously, resulting in a chaotic brawl.
Characters to notice
- Old Uncle Jake
The old colored preacher who tries Sam Jones's style
Key passages
“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.
