O. Henry

O. Henry (1862-1910) is one of the most famous
American short story writers. His real name is William
Sydney Porter. He was a prolific writer who wrote
about the life of ordinary people in New York City.

His short stories are famous for their surprise endings
and humor. The term “O. Henry endings” comes
from the short stories of O. Henry, which typically
involve such a conclusion. He published 10 collections
and over 600 short stories during his lifetime. He died
in New York City at the age of forty seven. He was a
heavy drinker and died virtually penniless.

O. Henry is one of the great masters of the short
story. This collection includes “The Last Leaf”, “The
Gift of the Magi”, "The Ransom of Red Chief," “The
Green Door”, “The Furnished Room”, and 10 more.

O. HENRY ENDING: Also called a trick ending or a
surprise ending, this term refers to a totally
unexpected and unprepared-for turn of events, one
which alters the action in a narrative.