The Gift of the Magi
What explanation does Della give regarding her hair?
Is Jim's love for Della diminished by the fact that she cut her hair? Why?
In "The Gift of the Magi," Della explains that she had cut her hair to buy a present for Jim, as her hair was her one prized possession. She states that her hair will grow back quickly, and thus she sees no harm in sacrificing it for the sake of acquiring a gift for Jim.
Jim's love for Della is not diminished by the fact that she cut her hair. Instead, it is further elevated and intensified. O. Henry portrays Jim as deeply touched and moved by Della's selflessness and sacrifice. He realizes the magnitude of her love and her willingness to give up something dear to her for his happiness. Instead of feeling diminished, his love for her only grows stronger, as he realizes the depth of her affection and devotion.