Here's how it manifests in the story:
* Sacrifice: Both Della and Jim give up their most prized possessions – Della cuts her long hair to buy a chain for Jim's watch, and Jim sells his watch to buy combs for Della's hair. This selfless act highlights the depth of their love and willingness to go to extreme measures for each other.
* Irony: The irony of the situation is that they both sacrificed what the other person wanted most. This emphasizes the powerful theme of love as the ultimate gift, even when misunderstood or misdirected.
* True Meaning of Love: Despite the apparent failure of their gifts, the story celebrates the love they have for each other, which is ultimately the most valuable thing they possess. Their sacrifices demonstrate the true meaning of love, which is giving and caring for the other person's well-being, even at their own expense.
Ultimately, "The Gift of the Magi" encourages us to reflect on the importance of love, generosity, and understanding in our relationships. The story teaches us that the true value of a gift lies not in its material worth, but in the love and thoughtfulness behind it.