The Gift of the Magi - Abridged

Name: O. Henry (pseudonym for William Sydney Porter)
Date of Birth: September 11, 1862
Date of Death: June 5, 1910
Henry, whose real name was William Sydney Porter, was a renowned writer of short stories from the turn of the 19th to the 20th century. He was born in Greensboro, North Carolina, in 1862. His life was marked by twists and challenges that eventually led him into the world of literature.
Porter had limited education and began his career as an apprentice pharmacist, which took him to various places, including Texas, where he developed an interest in stories and the people he met. However, his pharmaceutical career was interrupted when he was accused of embezzlement in a bank, a crime he allegedly did not commit.
After a conviction and a prison sentence, Porter used his time in prison to hone his writing skills. During this period, he began using the pseudonym "O. Henry." After his release, he moved to New York City, where his literary career took off.
Henry is best known for his short stories, which often feature surprising plots and unexpected twists. His stories capture the urban life of early 20th-century New York City with a touch of humor and empathy for ordinary people.
Some of his most famous works include "The Gift of the Magi," "The Gift of the Wise Men," and "The Last of the Mohicans." His unique style and skillfully constructed narratives made him one of the most beloved writers of his time.
However, O. Henry's health began to deteriorate, and he died prematurely in 1910 at the age of 47 due to complications related to cirrhosis of the liver. Despite his short life, he left a lasting legacy in American literature, and his stories continue to be read and appreciated by generations of readers worldwide.