William Sydney Porter, better known by his pen name O. Henry, was an American writer renowned for his short stories. Although he also penned poetry and non-fiction, his reputation rests chiefly on his narrative artistry within the short story genre. Notable works such as The Gift of the Magi, The Duplicity of Hargraves, and The Ransom of Red Chief, along with the novel Cabbages and Kings, showcase his talent. Porter's narratives are celebrated for their keen naturalist observations, sharp wit, and the hallmark surprise endings that popularized the term "an O. Henry ending" in English literature.

His legacy is venerated through the O. Henry Award, an annual accolade bestowed upon outstanding short stories, commemorating his contributions to American literature. Porter's life was as intriguing as his fiction. He left school at the age of fifteen and navigated various jobs before honing his craft as a storyteller. His personal experiences and the cultural milieu of his era profoundly influenced his character creation and storytelling voice.