1. Establishing the Setting and Characters:
* Introduction of Poverty: The story begins with a stark portrayal of Della and Jim's poverty, emphasizing their love for each other despite their financial struggles. This immediately establishes the theme of sacrifice and sets the stage for the central conflict.
* Introduction of the Gift: We are introduced to the gifts Della and Jim want to buy for each other, which are symbols of their love and desires: a platinum fob chain for Jim and a set of combs for Della.
2. Building Tension:
* Della's Dilemma: The story emphasizes the conflict within Della as she faces the dilemma of selling her prized possession, her long, beautiful hair, to buy Jim the chain. This internal conflict creates tension and foreshadows the climax.
* Jim's Struggle: The story subtly hints at Jim's financial struggles through his reserved behavior and Della's worry about his Christmas gift. This further builds tension and creates a sense of anticipation for the reader.
3. The Climax:
* The Sale and the Purchase: The climax is reached when Della sells her hair and purchases the chain. This action is both a physical act and a symbolic representation of her love and sacrifice. It culminates in a moment of emotional intensity, leaving the reader wondering about Jim's reaction.
4. The Twist and Resolution:
* The Revelation: The twist comes when Jim, having sold his watch to buy combs for Della, arrives home. Both characters are shocked and saddened by the irony of their gifts, which are now useless.
* The Surprise Ending: O. Henry cleverly subverts the reader's expectations by revealing that their gifts, while seemingly unusable, represent the true depth of their love and selflessness. The story ends with a message of love, sacrifice, and the importance of what truly matters.
5. The Use of Irony and Symbolism:
* Irony: The story relies heavily on irony. The gifts, meant to bring joy, instead lead to a moment of disappointment. This irony highlights the disparity between the couple's desires and their reality.
* Symbolism: Della's hair and Jim's watch are symbolic representations of their love and sacrifice. They are not just possessions; they are symbols of their commitment to each other.
O. Henry's masterful use of structure, irony, and symbolism culminates in a surprising and moving ending that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. The story highlights the power of love and sacrifice, reminding us that true treasures lie not in material possessions but in the depth of our connections.