AUTHOR'S STYLE AND IMAGERY IN O. HENRY'S SHORT STORIES
Keywords:
Keywords: O. Henry, short stories, author's style, imagery, irony, narrative techniques, surprise endings, character portrayal, American literature, literary analysis, emotional depth, social themes, human natureAbstract
Annotation. This article offers an in-depth examination of the distinctive authorial style and the role of imagery in O. Henry's short stories. Widely known for his sharp wit, ironic twists, and unexpected conclusions, O. Henry has solidified his reputation as one of the most prominent short story writers in American literature. The article explores how his stylistic choices, including his simple yet effective prose, humorous tone, and emotional depth, serve to captivate readers and elevate the impact of his stories. The analysis delves into his masterful use of imagery, where his vivid and detailed descriptions create dynamic settings, evoke emotional responses, and help bring his characters to life [1]. By focusing on a selection of his most renowned works, the study illustrates how O. Henry's use of imagery intertwines with his storytelling techniques to enhance the themes of social justice, human kindness, and the complexities of human nature. This exploration provides insight into the creative process behind O. Henry's works, shedding light on how his style and imagery contribute to the timeless appeal of his stories, which continue to resonate with readers across generations.
References
1. Gage, J. (1992). The Short Story: A Critical Introduction. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
2. Kohn, R. L. (2003). O. Henry and the Tradition of Irony in American Literature. New York: University Press.
3. Lee, C. (2016). The Literary Style of O. Henry: A Study of Short Fiction. London: Palgrave Macmillan.
4. Walsh, W. J. (1988). O. Henry: The Man and His Work. New York: Macmillan.
5. Eble, K. (2006). Irony and Humor in O. Henry’s Short Stories. Cambridge: Harvard University Press.
6. Davis, R. C. (2003). Twentieth-Century Short Story Theories. Athens: Ohio University Press.
7. Nussbaum, M. C. (2014). Human Flourishing and O. Henry’s Social Themes. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
8. Lotman, Y. M. (1970). Struktura xudozhestvennogo teksta (The Structure of the Artistic Text). Moscow: Iskusstvo.
9. Tuttleton, W. B. (1993). The Short Story in America: 1900–1950. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
10. Davis, S. (2001). The Power of Imagery in American Fiction. Princeton: Princeton University Press.
