O. Henry, the pen name of William Sydney Porter (1862–1910), was an American short story writer known for his wit, clever plot twists, and surprise endings. Born in North Carolina, O. Henry’s stories often explored the human condition and the complexities of everyday life. His most famous works include “The Gift of the Magi,” “The Ransom of Red Chief,” and “The Last Leaf.” O. Henry’s writing style, characterized by its humour, irony, and keen observations of human nature, gained popularity during the early 20th century. Despite a relatively brief literary career, his impact on the short story genre endured, influencing subsequent generations of writers.
His legacy is commemorated through the annual O. Henry Award, recognizing outstanding short stories. O. Henry’s ability to capture the essence of human experiences in concise narratives continues to make his stories timeless and beloved by readers around the world.
