* Early Life and Career: O. Henry was born in 1862 in North Carolina. He worked as a pharmacist and bank teller before becoming a writer.
* Literary Success: He gained fame for his short stories, known for their witty dialogue, unexpected twists, and focus on everyday life in New York City.
* Personal Struggles: O. Henry's life was marked by tragedy. He was imprisoned for embezzlement, and his marriage ended in divorce.
* Themes in His Work: His stories often explored themes of redemption, love, irony, and the human condition. "The Last Leaf" exemplifies these themes, focusing on the power of hope and the importance of human connection.
While "The Last Leaf" itself doesn't directly reveal O. Henry's personal experiences, its themes and characters reflect his observations of life and the struggles people face.