The Gift of the Magi

by O. Henry

"The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry is a short story first published in 1905. It tells of a young married couple facing the challenge of buying secret Christmas gifts for each other with very little money. Each possesses a treasured item—Della's beautiful long hair and Jim's gold pocket watch. As they struggle to find meaningful presents, their choices lead to an unexpected twist ending that has become famous as an example of cosmic irony and a timeless lesson about love and sacrifice.