Goin Home Fur Christmas by O. Henry

Name: Goin Home Fur Christmas
Author: O. Henry

The narrative centers on a family's struggle during hard times, particularly focusing on a mother who longs to reunite with her family for Christmas. The father dismisses the idea of traveling, citing financial difficulties and the impracticality of visiting relatives. Despite his objections, the mother expresses her deep desire to see her loved ones, reflecting on her memories and the sacrifices she has made to save money for the trip. As the story unfolds, the father’s stern demeanor contrasts with the mother’s emotional yearning. The tension between practicality and emotional longing is palpable, highlighting the challenges faced by families during difficult economic times. The mother’s hope and determination are evident, even as the father remains resolute in his stance against the journey. Tragically, the narrative takes a poignant turn when the mother falls ill and ultimately passes away. In her final moments, she expresses her love for her children and her wish to go "home for Christmas," which symbolizes not only a physical journey but also a spiritual return to her roots and family. This moment encapsulates the themes of love, loss, and the enduring bond of family, even in the face of hardship. The story concludes with a sense of bittersweet resolution, as the children are left to grapple with their grief while holding onto the memory of their mother’s love and her desire for familial connection during the holiday season. The narrative serves as a reflection on the importance of family ties and the emotional weight of Christmas, emphasizing that the true essence of the holiday lies in togetherness and love, transcending material circumstances.

By O. Henry · First published 1902 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Poetry, Holiday Fiction · 330 words

First lines

Pa fussed at ma, and said By gun! / There wa'n't no use a talkin'; / Times wuz too hard to travel round, / In any way 'cept walkin', / And said 'twas nonsense anyhow, / Folks didn't want no visitors; / And said ma needn't talk no more, / 'Bout goin' home for Christmas.

"I'd like to see 'em all," says ma, / All pale and almost cryin'; / A gazin' out the window, where / The snow wuz fairly flyin'; / "I've been a thinkin', oh so long, / 'Bout mother and my sisters; / And savin' every cent I could / To'ards goin' home for Christmas. " / But pa he frowned and then ma sighed. / Just once, and kinder' smilin', / Says: "Well, les' go an' have some tea, / The water's all a-bilin'."

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Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The work explores deep emotional themes related to family, loss, and the significance of home during the Christmas season.
Poetry — The text employs a rhythmic and lyrical style, resembling poetry in its structure and emotional resonance.
Holiday Fiction — The narrative centers around Christmas, highlighting the holiday's themes of family and togetherness.
Drama — The story presents a dramatic situation involving family dynamics and the impact of loss.

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Goin Home Fur Christmas is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1902 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: O. Henry
Date: 1902 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Poetry, Holiday Fiction, Drama, Realism
Length: 330 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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