About the Author

O. Henry, whose real name was William Sydney Porter, was an American short story writer famous for his witty narration, twist endings, and deep insight into human nature. Born in 1862 in North Carolina, O. Henry lived a life filled with challenges, including imprisonment, during which he began writing. His stories often depict ordinary people and their extraordinary struggles, combined with elements of irony and hope. “The Last Leaf” is one of his most cherished works, highlighting compassion, sacrifice, and the value of life.

Detailed Summary

“The Last Leaf” by O. Henry is a moving short story that revolves around friendship, hope, and the transformative power of sacrifice. The narrative is set in Greenwich Village, where two young artists, Sue and Johnsy, share a modest apartment. In November, Johnsy contracts pneumonia and becomes critically ill. Despite the doctor’s visits, her condition does not improve because she has lost the will to live. She becomes fixated on the ivy vine outside her window, believing that when the last leaf falls, she too will die.

Sue, her devoted friend, tries to cheer her by talking about fashion and painting in the room, but Johnsy remains depressed and keeps counting the falling leaves. Sue, deeply worried, confides in their elderly neighbor, Behrman, a failed painter who has always dreamed of creating a masterpiece. When Behrman learns about Johnsy’s belief, he is determined to help.

That stormy night, when only one leaf is left on the vine, Behrman secretly goes outside in the harsh cold, armed with brushes and paints. The next morning, Johnsy sees the lone leaf still clinging to the vine despite the storm. Day after day, the leaf remains there. Inspired by its resilience, Johnsy realizes that her despair was wrong and regains her will to live. The doctor confirms her recovery, stating that her newfound determination is stronger than any medicine.

However, Sue soon learns the tragic truth: Behrman had braved the storm to paint the leaf on the wall. He caught pneumonia in the process and died within two days. His final act of sacrifice became his long-awaited masterpiece, saving Johnsy’s life. The story ends with Johnsy’s realization that life must never be given up easily and that hope can arise even in the darkest times.

Themes & Message

• Hope and Optimism: The story emphasizes that hope is crucial for survival and healing.
• Sacrifice and Love: Behrman’s selfless sacrifice highlights the depth of compassion and true artistry.
• The Power of Belief: Johnsy’s recovery reflects how mental strength influences physical health.
• Friendship and Care: Sue’s devotion underlines the importance of supportive relationships during hardships.

Character Sketches

• Johnsy: A young artist who loses her will to live after falling ill but eventually learns the value of hope and resilience.
• Sue: Johnsy’s caring and determined friend, who does everything possible to comfort her and save her life.
• Behrman: An old painter who sacrifices his life to inspire Johnsy by painting the last leaf, thus creating his greatest masterpiece.

Important Question–Answers

Glossary

• Janitor: a person whose job is to look after a building.

Source / Reference

O. Henry, “The Last Leaf” – NCERT Class 9 English Moments (Supplementary Reader).