Which of the following best describes a central theme of the text "after twenty years"? a. those who fight for justice will always be rewarded. b. loyalty is absolute and must allow no room for disagreement. c. the decision between loyalty and doing what is right is a hard one to make. d. money can one make new friends and earn respect.

C. The decision between loyalty and doing what is right is a hard one to make.

The short story “After Twenty Years” by O. Henry tells the story of two friends. They have agreed to meet after twenty years of not seeing each other. However, when they do, one is a cop and the other one is a wanted criminal. The policeman has to make the decision of remaining loyal to his friend, or doing what is right, which is capture him. This is a difficult choice that the character struggles with.

- "the answers are a and b.  

when cullen speaks of planting while others reap, and standing "abject and mute," he is speaking about the racial injustices present in american society. as these injustices have changed over time, the american identity  has also shifted. those changes are, in turn, reflected in american literature."