Review of John O'Hara's Graven Image

Feb 4, 2026

I just finished reading a short story by John O'Hara called, “Graven Image.” He is largely credited with having created the “New Yorker” style of writing. Reading the story, I can see why. The story was published in the New Yorker Magazine on March 6, 1943 and is now available for download since the New Yorker started digitizing their collections.

After reading it, I wasn't sure what to make of it so I looked at other interpretations online. I have to agree with the reviews that the story is too sparse, doesn't include any descriptions at all (apparently O'Hara's trademark style), doesn't provide any time or place or history to help the reader. I never would have been able to guess it was about the Roosevelt administration, for example. This, as well, as the flatness of the story, is a real put off. As one reviewer said, “I don't care about the characters or the story. Why would I ever want to read anything else he wrote.” Unfortunately, I help but agree. The story is not written for a reader, it is written for a puzzle solver. There is really no need to try to hide everything. Yes, it is a clever puzzle in words that was put together. But who cares? That's not why I read stories.

As to the interpretation, there are many. The Graven Image is supposed to be the small golden pig Browning keeps in his pocket. OK, but that's not a Graven image, is it? I guess it depends on your interpretation. One person one line said it pointed to Antisemitism. I didn't get that when I read it, but I can see why they might have thought so. In that case, Graven Image is more plausible, but still a stretch as an image. I read the pig and word Pork (which he capitalized in the story) to mean the corruption, the good old boy network. Why? The use of the word golden, which could also point to the Golden Calf, supporting the use of the word Graven Image and corruption, but not Antisemitism. Also, the Under Secretary is called “Joe,” a very common name. He is also described as “walking slightly sideways,” indicating he doesn't fit in. And his use of swearing (which I don't think is entirely realistic in this context) shows that he is simple and direct. Whereas Browning, is slick, always trying to polish his words and insult by innuendo. That's why I think both his class and his direct honesty are what keep him from being a member of the club.

Having read the story, I think O'Hara is a one and done for me. Time to move on to better things.