Famed short story writer behind "The Gift of the Magi" nyt crossword clue

The clue "Famed short story writer behind 'The Gift of the Magi'" points to the author of this well-known story. The answer to this clue is "O. Henry," which is a pen name for American writer William Sydney Porter. ### Analyzing the Clue 1. **Keyword Recognition**: The phrase "short story writer" suggests that we are looking for an author known for their short stories. "The Gift of the Magi" is one of the most famous short stories in American literature, often studied in schools and recognized for its themes of love and sacrifice. 2. **Historical Context**: O. Henry was active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and he is renowned for his twist endings and humorous writing style, which aligns with the nature of "The Gift of the Magi." 3. **Wordplay**: The clue does not have any direct puns or wordplay, making it straightforward. 4. **Letter Count & Pattern**: If you have any known letters from crossing words, confirming that they fit with "O. Henry" can further validate this answer. ### Additional Knowledge Points - **Title Significance**: "The Gift of the Magi," published in 1905, revolves around a young couple, Jim and Della, who sacrifice their most treasured possessions to buy gifts for each other, illustrating the theme of selfless love. - **Influence**: O. Henry's works have had a significant impact on American literature and popular culture, leading to many adaptations and references in modern storytelling. ### Tips for Crossword Solving: - **Focus on Context**: When analyzing clues related to literature or art, consider what is well-known or iconic within that context. - **Use Known Letters**: If you get partial letter placements from crossing answers, leverage those letters to help narrow down possibilities. - **Look for Clue Structure**: Identify the format of the question—question words (what, who, where) often lead directly to nouns or proper names. In summary, the answer to this clue is "O. Henry," and understanding the context and significance of the work aids in arriving at the solution.