A Christmas Struggle
Della has only 1.87tohername,mostlyinpenniesthatsheโฒsscrapedtogetherbybeggingfromlocalshopkeepers.SheโฒsfrustratedbecauseChristmasiscoming,andshewantstobuysomethingspecialforherhusbandJames.Theirfinancialsituationhasgottenworseovertime,withJamesโฒsincomedroppingfrom30 to $20 per week.
The couple has only two prized possessions: James's gold watch that was handed down from his father, and Della's beautiful long hair. Looking at herself in the pier glass, Della admires her flowing hair while contemplating what gift would be worthy of James.
Remember this: The story shows how material poverty doesn't equal poverty of spirit or love. The couple's most valuable possessions aren't expensive items, but things with personal meaning.
In a moment of determination, Della visits a shop with a sign reading "Hair Goods of All Kinds." She asks if they purchase hair, and when the owner confirms they do, she sells her beautiful long hair. With the money from this sacrifice, Della spends hours searching through stores until she finally finds the perfect giftโa platinum fob chain for James's precious watch.
Back at home, Della curls her now-short hair and worries about James's reaction to her new appearance. She waits anxiously for her husband to return from work at 7 o'clock, preparing for their evening meal.