A review by will_cherico
The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

emotional hopeful sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

This is a really classic example of irony, and and it's great to know that the story isn't ruined by knowing the twist. O. Henry's writing is full of a dry wit that never denigrates the protagonists. I like this story because even though the ending could easily be read as really miserable and tragic, there's a level of hope that's present without feeling corny. The repetition of "my hair will grow back" has this optimistic "things will get better" beat to it, and in a time where Christmas is so consumed by buying the best gifts, the idea that love for the other is the greatest gift of all is very refreshing.