The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi is a timeless short story set in the early 1900s that beautifully captures the themes of love, sacrifice, and selflessness. The story follows Della and Jim, a young couple struggling to make ends meet but deeply devoted to one another. With only $1.87 to spend on Christmas gifts, Della sells her treasured long hair to buy a platinum chain for Jim’s prized watch, while Jim, unbeknownst to her, sells his watch to buy elegant combs for her hair.

When they exchange gifts, they are met with bittersweet irony, yet their mutual sacrifices reveal the depth of their love. Through this poignant tale, O. Henry reminds us that the true essence of giving lies in the thought and love behind it, echoing the wisdom of the magi who gave gifts of great meaning.