"Four O'Clock" is a short story written by James Thurber. It revolves around a mother who is deeply concerned about her son, who is often late coming home. The story explores themes of parental anxiety and the passage of time, highlighting the mother's worries about her son's safety and behavior. As the narrative unfolds, the mother decides to take action to ensure her son's well-being. The story uses humor and irony to convey its message, ultimately revealing the complexities of family relationships and the challenges of growing up.