The Complete Works (eBook)

O. Henry, the pen name of William Sydney Porter (September 11, 1862 – June 5, 1910), was an American short story writer renowned for his wit, wordplay, and clever twist endings. Born in Greensboro, North Carolina, Porter led a varied career that included roles such as a pharmacist, bank teller, and journalist before finding fame as a writer. His experiences in Texas, Honduras, and New York City provided a diverse backdrop for his unique tales. Porter's literary work gained momentum when he started to publish under his pen name, 'O. Henry', during his imprisonment in Ohio for alleged embezzlement — a controversial period in his life that, nonetheless, became a crucible for his creativity. With tales such as 'The Gift of the Magi' and 'The Ransom of Red Chief', O. Henry secured his place as a master of the short story, characterized by vibrant characters and the 'O. Henry twist'. 'The Complete Works' of O. Henry presents an extensive collection of his stories that capture the everyday lives of ordinary people, offering insight into society at the turn of the twentieth century. His stories have enchanted readers for over a century and continue to be celebrated for their humor, pathos, and unexpected conclusions. Despite his short career—he passed away at the age of 47—O. Henry's prolific output and influence on the American short story genre remain enduringly significant.