In O. Henry's classic tale, "The Gift of the Magi," Della's most cherished personal object is her magnificent, long, brown hair. This beautiful cascade of hair was her pride and joy, so long that it famously reached past her knees.
The Significance of Della's Prized Possession
Della's hair was not merely a physical attribute; it was a central part of her identity and a deeply valued possession, especially given the couple's financial struggles. It represented beauty, youth, and perhaps the last vestige of luxury she owned.
Here's why Della's hair holds such profound importance in the story:
- A Symbol of Beauty and Pride: Her lengthy hair is repeatedly described with adoration, highlighting its natural splendor. Della takes immense pride in its appearance and length, often letting it down to admire it.
- Parallel to Jim's Treasure: Just as Della cherishes her hair, her husband Jim treasures his gold watch, an heirloom passed down through his family from his grandfather. These two possessions are presented as the couple's most valuable assets.
- The Ultimate Sacrifice: The true significance of Della's hair becomes apparent when she selflessly decides to sell it to a wig maker. This act is a profound demonstration of her love for Jim, as she sacrifices her most cherished possession to purchase a fitting Christmas gift for him—a platinum fob chain for his beloved watch.
This parallel sacrifice, where both Della and Jim give up their most prized possessions for the sake of the other, forms the heartwarming and poignant core of the story, emphasizing the true spirit of giving and love over material wealth.
A Look at Their Cherished Items
To illustrate the nature of their treasures, here's a brief comparison:
| Character | Most Cherished Possession | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Della | Her long, brown hair | A beautiful and lengthy cascade, reaching past her knees. |
| Jim | His gold watch | A family heirloom inherited from his grandfather. |
