A Proof of Love by O. Henry (1910)

Name: A Proof of Love
Author: O. Henry

The narrative centers on a couple, Lois and her partner, who share a moment of romantic intimacy. Lois expresses her love through poetic words, evoking a sense of bliss and connection. However, the conversation takes a practical turn when she requests a mundane task: filling the wood box. This juxtaposition of romantic ideals and everyday responsibilities highlights the complexities of love. As the story unfolds, the male protagonist reflects on the nature of love and the balance between grand gestures and simple acts of care. He grapples with the idea that love is not solely about poetic expressions but also about the willingness to engage in the ordinary tasks that sustain a relationship. The protagonist's internal conflict reveals his desire to be both a romantic partner and a responsible individual. The narrative explores themes of love, duty, and the interplay between passion and practicality. The protagonist's realization that love encompasses both the extraordinary and the mundane deepens the emotional resonance of the story. The couple's dynamic illustrates how love can manifest in various forms, from grand declarations to small acts of service. Ultimately, the work presents a nuanced view of love, suggesting that true affection is demonstrated through both words and actions. The protagonist learns that fulfilling everyday responsibilities can be an expression of love as profound as any romantic sentiment. The story concludes with a sense of acceptance, as the protagonist embraces the idea that love is a blend of both the poetic and the practical, reinforcing the notion that genuine affection is rooted in everyday life.

By O. Henry · First published 1910 · Genre: Romance, Poetry, Literary Fiction · 217 words

First lines

"If you love me as I love you" -- (Ah, sweet those words to lover's ear, 'Twas Lois spake, in accents true, So loving, tender, kind and dear.)

"If you love me as I love you" -- (Ah, heaven and earth were wrapped in bliss, The wild rose listened, dissolved in dew; The very zephyrs sought her kiss.)

"If you love me as I love you" -- (Ah, strains from Paradise her words! ) "And if I do, what then? " I asked; While round us winged the listening birds.

"If you love me as I love you -- " She raised those fringed eyes of jet, And whispered low in pleading tones: "Just fill the wood box, will you, pet? "

What this Textopian page supports

A Proof of Love is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1910 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: O. Henry
Date: 1910 CE
Language: English
Genres: Romance, Poetry, Literary Fiction, Short Story, Drama
Length: 217 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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How does this short story by O. Henry fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles

Genres

Romance — The central theme revolves around love and romantic relationships, highlighting emotional connections.
Poetry — The work employs poetic language and structure, emphasizing lyrical expression and rhythm.
Literary Fiction — The narrative explores deeper themes of love and human connection, characteristic of literary fiction.
Short Story — The work is concise and focused, fitting the short story format.