O. Henry

La ambición del yanki vagabundo que se embarca en busca de fortuna y aventura, la soledad de los enfermos desahuciados que van a los sanatorios en busca de una ilusión, los trotamundos del interior de los Estados Unidos, que lo mismo son capaces de vender remedios magicos que de interpretar a Shakespeare, pero sobre todo el amor, ese amor que puede surgir incluso entre dos duros vaqueros del viejo Oeste, son los temas de estos Rolling Stones. Una coleccion de historias ineditas en su mayor parte que permite al lector acercarse a la obra de O. Henry; un estilista del lenguaje que usa los juegos de palabras, el doble sentido y la parodia, para mostrarnos las miserias y grandezas de sus personajes.Divertido e ingenioso.

Ideal for elementary or pre-intermediate learners of English looking to improve and practise their English. The book is filled with useful vocabulary that is carefully graded and easy to understand, it also comes with audio, so that you can listen to the story at the same time as reading.What does a poor young woman do when she loses her boyfriend or wants to find one? What little lies do we tell to make ourselves look better in the eyes of those that we love? How can a friend save someone who is sure that they are going to die? What happens when someone's clever plans go all wrong? These sweetly surprising short stories - about both good times and bad - are sometimes sad, and sometimes funny. But all of them are sure to make you think.

Una tradizionale storia di Natale con un finale decisamente imprevedibile, una coppia di squattrinati in cerca del regalo perfetto, una Vigilia di Natale nel selvaggio West, un barbone che cerca disperatamente di farsi arrestare per passare l''inverno al caldo e un altro che decide di emigrare al sud.Dal padre della short story americana, sei capolavori di delicatezza e ironia sul tema del Natale.

Step into the boarding houses and furnished rooms of New York City, or take a stroll around the park. Observe the tumult and glitter of Broadway on a Saturday night, and browse the silken stockings in Manhattans most exclusive store. Hop onto the Coney Island ferry to join the lovesick shop-girl, the drunken down-and-out, and the secret millionaire in the citys dance of folly and pleasure. Bringing to life the glamour and squalor of the 1900s, O. Henrys unmistakable tales are by turns hilarious or tragic, but always deeply poignant. As fresh and alive as the day they were written . . . He wrote so many good stories its hard to choose. - John SteinbeckA central figure in American popular literature. - Harold Bloom

Illus.: H. C. Greening and May Wilson Preston

In The Girl and the Graft O. Henry challenges the traditionally held expectations of a womans role in society. With his hallmark matter-of-fact wit, O. Henry questions the chasm between womens and mens socio-economic conditions in the newfound era of womens activism. The unfairness that the protagonist addresses is that men are the sole proprietors of "all the money in world." A must read for fans of satirical short stories and feminists alike. American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film O. Henrys Full House starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.

"All right. I suppose you think Im spoiled by the city. Im as good a Westerner as you are, Greenbrier; but, somehow, I cant make up my mind to go back out there. New York is comfortable - comfortable. I make a good living, and I love it. No more wet blankets and riding herd in snowstorms, and bacon and cold coffee, and blowouts once in six months for me."An Arizona cowboy on a short visit to New York finds himself rubbing shoulders with an old friend- but finds the man deeply changed by his seven years living in the Big Apple. Can he convert him back to his old ways without alarming too many fellow New Yorkers?American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film O. Henrys Full House starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.

Is it possible to get away with a fraud or the lies will catch up on you eventually?Jeff Peters and Andy Tucker are two swindlers who want to make money the easy way. Peters however wants to give something back in return in order to calm his guilty conscience.Will they get caught after one of their "smart" plans to trick and rob a Pittsburg Millionaire? Will Peters find the truth about Tucker? O. Henrys "Conscience in Art" has the answers.

In "The Gift of the Magi and Other New York City Stories," O. Henry masterfully blends humor, romance, and a profound sense of irony within a vibrant portrayal of early 20th-century New York City. Through his trademark twist endings and rich characterization, O. Henry explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the everyday lives of urban dwellers. Each story captures the essence of the bustling metropolis, showcasing the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, aspiration and disillusionment, making it a quintessential representation of the American short story form at that time. O. Henry, the pen name of William Sydney Porter, was a prolific American writer whose life experiences deeply influenced his narrative voice. Having spent his early years in the diverse environments of the American South and later in the crowded streets of New York, Porter was adept at capturing the nuances of city life. His encounters with hardship and crime, combined with his keen observation of human nature, allow him to infuse humor and poignancy into his writings, making them beloved both in his lifetime and beyond. This collection is essential for readers seeking to explore the intricate tapestry of human emotions and societal dynamics in a rapidly changing world. O. Henrys stories resonate with timeless truths about love, sacrifice, and the unexpected ways we give and receive, making it a captivating read for both newcomers and seasoned fans of literature alike.

The Complete O. Henry Short Stories is a meticulously curated anthology showcasing the unique storytelling prowess of one of Americas most beloved authors. O. Henrys signature blend of wit, irony, and heart imbues each tale with a distinctive voice, rendering ordinary life extraordinary through its intricate plots and surprise twists. This collection encapsulates the essence of early 20th-century urban America, illustrating the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of diverse characters struggling against the backdrop of New York City, a recurrent theme throughout O. Henrys work. O. Henry, born William Sydney Porter, drew from his own experience as a bank teller, embroiled in various life challenges, and a fervent observer of human nature, which provided the rich tapestry of urban life evident in his stories. His profound understanding of the human condition, coupled with his ability to infuse humor into poignant moments, showcases his literary genius. His life journey through poverty, imprisonment, and ultimately acclaim shaped the depth and relatability of his characters. This collection is a must-read for anyone interested in American literature, as it not only exemplifies O. Henrys charming narrative style but also offers timeless insights into societal norms and human emotions. Readers will find themselves enchanted by the intricate narratives that promise both entertainment and reflection, making it an essential addition to any literary collection.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.- The Author Biography highlights personal milestones and literary influences that shape the entire body of writing.- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader erasocial currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different works strengths.- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the authors overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.- Lastly, our handpicked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collections central themes.

In "The Gift of the Magi and Other New York Stories," O. Henry masterfully weaves a tapestry of urban life through a series of poignant narratives set in the bustling streets of early 20th century New York. Renowned for his twist endings and rich character development, O. Henry presents stories that explore themes of love, sacrifice, and irony. The titular story, "The Gift of the Magi," epitomizes the selfless spirit of giving, showcasing the profound connection between material possessions and genuine affection. Each tale is marked by vivid imagery and a poignant sense of humor, reflecting both the struggles and joys of everyday city dwellers. O. Henry, born William Sydney Porter, was an American short story writer whose own life experiences shaped his narratives. Having worked various jobs, including as a bank teller, he was deeply familiar with the complexities of human relationships and the socio-economic contradictions of his time. O. Henrys signature wit and keen observations of urban life are informed by his love for New York, a city that served as both backdrop and character in his work. This collection is highly recommended for readers seeking a blend of humor, compassion, and insightful commentary on human nature. Ideal for those who appreciate intricate storytelling and a look into the heart of New York City, O. Henrys timeless tales resonate with anyone who has experienced the blend of love and hardship in their lives.

In "The Complete Works," O. Henry presents a masterful collection of his short stories, each rich in wit, irony, and intricate plots that reveal the complexities of human behavior. Characterized by his signature style, which blends colloquial dialogue with clever twists, the collection showcases O. HenryAos keen observations of urban life in early 20th-century America. The stories often explore themes of love, sacrifice, and the unpredictable nature of fate, reflecting the socio-economic landscape of the time while maintaining an enduring timelessness. O. Henry, a pseudonym for William Sydney Porter, was shaped by his diverse experiences ranging from a bank clerk to a fugitive; these encounters influenced his storytelling. His ability to encapsulate the human experience in concise narratives is remarkable, and his distinctive voice was informed by his own life struggles, instilling depth into his characters. Raised in a modest setting, O. HenryAos insights into the lives of the overlooked and the whimsical nature of daily occurrences lend authenticity and relatability to his work. Recommended for fans of both classic literature and those new to short fiction, "The Complete Works" serves as an essential compendium that not only entertains but also enriches ones understanding of the human condition. O. HenryAos stories remain a celebrated exploration of irony and surprise, making this collection a must-read for anyone intrigued by the art of storytelling.

O. Henry’s stories are very famous. He writes about New York, Texas, Oklahoma ... Money and love are often problems. But how is a story going to finish? You never know. Readers always remember his st

Los cuentos de O. Henry tienen una característica que los hace inconfundibles, su final con sorpresa. La última línea resuelve, siempre con maestría, una trama, compleja en su camino por los sentimientos pero clara en la descripcion de sus protagonistas. Jorge Luis Borges, que lo admiraba profundamente, dijo de el: Edgar Allan Poe sostenia que todo cuento debe redactarse en funcion de su desenlace; O. Henry exagero esta doctrina y llego asi al trick story, al relato en cuya linea final acecha una sorpresa. Esto no es un cuento y otros cuentos recoge doce historias de nitida escritura, sentido del humor paradojico y un estilo directo, con una tecnica que hoy llamariamos avant la lettre, cinematografica. O. Henry decia que en Nueva York hay cuatro millones de historias, las de sus cuatro millones de habitantes: desde el amor o mas bien la dura conquista de la mujer al negocio del heroismo, desde el periodismo a la caballerosidad sureñas, las leyes capitalistas de la oferta y la demanda o los indios civilizados que estudian griego y solo arrancan la cabellera de sus contrincantes en los partidos de futbol americano, sus narraciones cargadas de humor y de un enorme pragmatismo nos cuentan hechos insolitos en las vidas de gente corriente.