Short Fiction · Chapter
The Unprofitable Servant explained
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.
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.
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 Falling action.
- 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
- 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.
Characters to notice
- 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 passages
“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.
