Analyzing the symbolism of the last leaf in the short story The Last Leaf

Exploring the symbolic imagery of the final leaf in the short story The Last Leaf

I. Outline of Analyzing the Symbolism of the Last Leaf in the Short Story The Last Leaf

1. Introduction

- Providing an overview of the author O. Henry, the excerpt studied being the concluding part of the short story 'The Last Leaf'
- The symbolism of the last leaf is depicted as a masterpiece rich in artistic and profound human values

2. Body

- Overview of the storyline and the circumstances surrounding the creation of the last leaf:
+ Xiu, Gion-xi, and Mr. Bohman are all impoverished artists living in difficult conditions

- The last leaf is a masterpiece of art because:
+ The image of the leaf resembles reality
+ It is painted with the passion of someone yearning for artistic masterpiece
+ Created under special circumstances

- The symbolism of the last leaf is rich in profound humanity:
+ The image of the leaf is painted with the whole heart of love, silent sacrifice
+ The leaf saved Gion-xi's life

3. Conclusion

- Affirming the value of the symbolism of the last leaf: The symbolism of the last leaf embodies the true essence of artistic power, the compassion between human beings

II. Sample Essay Analyzing the Symbolism of the Last Leaf in the Short Story 'The Last Leaf'

American short story writer - O. Henry has penned numerous remarkable works, leaving an indelible impression on readers. Though his stories may seem simple and gentle, they are imbued with humanitarian spirit, love, and compassion between individuals. Among them, the short story 'The Last Leaf' evokes deep emotions about noble humanity amidst impoverished destinies, especially the symbolism of the last leaf in the short story truly represents a masterpiece of art.

The story revolves around the lives and destinies of three characters Xiu, Gion-xi, and Mr. Bohman, all of whom are impoverished artists living near Oa-sinh-ton Park. Xiu and Gion-xi are two young female artists, while Mr. Bohman is elderly, spending his entire life dreaming of creating a masterpiece but unable to do so due to financial constraints. Gion-xi suffers from pneumonia, and during the harsh winter, her condition worsens, adding to her despair amidst poverty and illness, leading her to lose the will to live...(Continued)

>> Read the full essay analyzing the symbolism of the last leaf in the short story 'The Last Leaf' here.