Top 6 best essays on 'The Last Leaf' by O. Henry

Question 1:
* The details in the text that reflect the love and selfless actions of Mr. Behrman towards Johnsy include: Mr. Behrman anxiously peeking out of the window, gazing at the ivy vine, indicating his concern for Johnsy. Mr. Behrman silently paints the last leaf during the stormy night, showing his deep love and self-sacrifice for Johnsy. * The writer intentionally omits the description of Mr. Behrman painting the last leaf in the storm to preserve the surprise and elevate the image of Mr. Behrman at the end of the story. * It can be said that the leaf Mr. Behrman painted is a masterpiece, created with all the love and the life of an elderly artist, saving a young artist's life.

Question 2: Evidence confirming that Xiu was not aware of Mr. Behrman's plan to paint a leaf to replace the last falling one: Before, they hadn't spoken when Mr. Behrman posed as a model for Xiu to paint. Xiu was shocked to see that the ivy leaf remained on the wall after the stormy night. She only learned of Mr. Behrman's illness when the doctor mentioned it. Had Xiu known about Mr. Behrman's intention, the plot would have lost its suspense and appeal. Moreover, Xiu's love for Johnsy wouldn't have been as deeply expressed, and the reader wouldn't have experienced her heartfelt worry.

Question 3: * The mood of Johnsy and Xiu after each time they raised the curtain: First time: Johnsy fears the last ivy leaf will fall, Xiu is anxious. Second time: Both Johnsy and Xiu are stunned and surprised to see the leaf still hanging. * The deeper cause behind Johnsy's revival: Seeing the ivy leaf's resilience after the storm, Johnsy doesn't want to let down Xiu and Mr. Behrman. * The writer ends the story with Xiu's narration and no further response from Johnsy because: This can be seen as an open ending, allowing readers to imagine Johnsy's reaction. It affirms that the aftertaste of love, faith, and sacrifice will linger forever.

Question 4: The excerpt from 'The Last Leaf' features a double reversal of the situation: Initially, Johnsy is seriously ill, resigned to death, while Mr. Behrman is healthy. Later, Johnsy recovers, but Mr. Behrman dies two days later from the exposure to the stormy night. The effect of this reversal: It creates surprise and intrigue, underscores the power of true art in bringing about resurrection, and deeply moves readers by the profound love between the impoverished characters.

* Remember:

The concluding pages of 'The Last Leaf' by O. Henry demonstrate that the story is intricately constructed with many compelling details, skillfully arranged with a double reversal of situations that engage the reader and evoke deep emotion from the selfless love between the impoverished characters.

I. A Brief Overview of the Author O. Henry

II. A Brief Overview of the Story The Last Leaf
1. Background of the Story
- The Last Leaf is one of over 600 short stories by O. Henry. This excerpt is taken from the final part of the story.
2. Structure
- Part 1: (from the beginning to "the low Dutch eaves"): The despairing mood of Sue.
- Part 2: (from "to the nourishing and caring" onwards): The rebirth of Johnsy.
- Part 3: The remainder: The selfless sacrifice of Old Behrman to save Johnsy.
3. Content Value
- The story is deeply humanistic, focusing on friendship and the love among people. It conveys the message that hope and love should always light the way, and that the highest form of art is one that serves humanity.
4. Artistic Value
- The story includes many engaging situations, with a well-organized structure and particularly the reversal of situations that creates a thrilling experience for the reader.

III. Answering the Questions

Question 1: (Page 90 of 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 1):

- The details that reveal Old Behrman's compassion and heroic actions:

+ "Peering anxiously out the window" → his concern for Johnsy.

+ He quietly painted the last leaf on a cold rainy night.

- The author does not directly describe Behrman’s act of painting the leaf, making it a surprise, as the image of Behrman is elevated. The leaf he painted is a masterpiece because it was created with love and sacrifice, ultimately saving a life.

Question 2: (Page 90 of 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 1):

- Sue had no idea of Behrman's intention to paint the leaf:

+ They never discussed it when Behrman posed as Sue's model for a painting.

+ Sue was surprised to see that one ivy leaf remained on the wall after the stormy night.

+ Only when the doctor told her did she realize Behrman was ill.

- Had Sue known of Behrman’s plan, the story would have lost its element of surprise and suspense.

Question 3: (Page 90 of 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 1):

- Johnsy was very ill and believed that her life would end when the last leaf fell. After the storm, she thought the ivy would lose all its leaves. But one leaf remained, clinging firmly, and she realized that life can be resilient and stubborn. This renewed her will to live, and she decided to fight on, like that single leaf.

- The story ends with Sue’s words, not allowing Johnsy to respond, which enhances the emotional impact and leaves a lasting impression.

Question 4: (Page 90 of 8th-grade Literature Textbook, Volume 1):

The excerpt contains two major reversals:

- Johnsy, once bedridden and despairing, miraculously recovers.

- Behrman, who was in good health, suddenly passes away after just two days of illness.

1. O. Henry (1862 - 1910) was an American writer, known for his short stories. Many of his works have profound value, reflecting a high humanitarian spirit and deep love between people.

2. Summary of the story and excerpt:

Xiu and Johnsy are two young, impoverished female artists. Johnsy falls seriously ill with pneumonia. Her condition is critical, and she loses all hope, awaiting the moment when the last leaf will fall, signaling the end of her life. Upon learning of her despair, Mr. Behrman, an elderly artist, stays up through a stormy night to paint a perfect ivy leaf. When the leaf doesn't fall, Johnsy finds new hope and decides to live and create again. She recovers from the brink of death, while Mr. Behrman dies after creating the masterpiece that saved her.

3. The short story 'The Last Leaf' by O. Henry highlights the affectionate bond between artists and, most importantly, praises Mr. Behrman's selfless sacrifice for another's life and the power of art in providing hope and life.

4. Details from the story illustrating Mr. Behrman’s love for Johnsy: Both Mr. Behrman and Xiu anxiously peer out the window, looking at the ivy vine. They exchange a silent glance, without speaking. Mr. Behrman hastily visits Johnsy. Their silence reflects their concern for her life. If the last leaf fell (and it surely would), Johnsy would give up. Mr. Behrman’s silence may suggest his preference for action over words, and he quietly paints the leaf during the storm.

The narrator only reveals at the end that Mr. Behrman painted the leaf, and in doing so, he fell ill and passed away. This revelation surprises Johnsy and also provides a surprise for the reader.

5. Evidence showing that Xiu was unaware of Mr. Behrman’s intention to paint the last leaf:

- Previously, they said nothing when Mr. Behrman modeled for Xiu’s painting.

- When Johnsy asked to raise the curtain, Xiu did so reluctantly (she couldn’t convince her friend and feared seeing the last leaf fall).

- Both Xiu and Johnsy were amazed: 'But, oh! After the storm and harsh winds... there’s still one ivy leaf clinging to the brick wall.'

- Xiu only learned that Mr. Behrman was ill when the doctor told her.

If Xiu had known about Mr. Behrman’s plan, the story would have lacked the element of surprise, tension, and excitement. Most importantly, Xiu’s sincere worry for her friend would have been lost.

6. Johnsy was weak and believed that her life would end when the last leaf fell. According to the harsh laws of nature, all the leaves had fallen. With the storm, the last leaf would inevitably fall, and Johnsy was certain she would die. This caused great anxiety among everyone.

However, the leaf didn’t fall. The courage of the leaf to withstand the harsh nature made Johnsy reconsider. She realized her mistake and wanted to live, hoping to paint the Bay of Naples.

The story ends with the writer not letting Johnsy say anything more. This keeps a lingering effect. Each reader can imagine their own interpretation of Johnsy’s reaction. If she had said more or acted, the story would lose this lingering effect.

7. The story has two surprising plot twists:

Johnsy, who was ill and hopeless, was given a very low chance of recovery. She was expecting death, but she recovered and survived.

Mr. Behrman was healthy and strong but suddenly fell ill for just two days due to exposure to the storm and passed away unexpectedly.

1. Summary:
Xiu and Johnsy are two young female artists. Johnsy is seriously ill with pneumonia. Desperately, she watches the last ivy leaf outside her window and believes that when the leaf falls, she too will die. However, after a heavy storm, the leaf remains intact, giving Johnsy hope and helping her overcome the illness. Meanwhile, old Behrman, a painter who lived in the room below, dies from severe illness after the storm. It turns out that Behrman had secretly painted the ivy leaf during the storm to give Johnsy hope.

2. Structure:

The story is divided into three parts:

+ Part 1 (from the beginning to “Holland”): Johnsy falls ill and awaits death.

+ Part 2 (from “then” to “take care – that’s it”): Johnsy fights off her illness.

+ Part 3 (the remainder): The truth behind the masterpiece, the last ivy leaf.

3. Guide to the Lesson

Question 1 (page 90 of Literature 8, Volume 1):

Details showing Behrman’s love for Johnsy:

+ Behrman anxiously looks out the window, staring at the ivy vine.

- Behrman rushes to visit Johnsy, worried about her health.

+ Behrman quietly paints the ivy leaf in the stormy night.

- His love and self-sacrifice for Johnsy are evident.

- The author doesn't directly tell us that Behrman painted the leaf because he wanted to surprise readers with the ending.

- The ivy leaf becomes a masterpiece, as it inspires Johnsy to fight for her life. In return, Behrman sacrifices his life.

Question 2 (page 90 of Literature 8, Volume 1):

- Xiu did not know Behrman’s intention to paint the leaf to replace the last one about to fall.

+ Before that, the two said nothing when Behrman posed as a model for Xiu.

+ When Johnsy asked to pull up the curtain, Xiu reluctantly obeyed.

+ Xiu, just like Johnsy, is amazed to see the last leaf still on the vine after the storm.

+ Xiu only learns that Behrman is ill when the doctor tells her.

- If Xiu had known about Behrman’s plan to paint the leaf, the story would have lost its surprise and intrigue. This also shows Xiu’s care, love, and concern for Johnsy.

Question 3 (page 90 of Literature 8, Volume 1):

- Johnsy is weak and desperate:

+ She waits for the last ivy leaf to fall, believing it signifies her death.

+ Johnsy is indifferent, neglecting herself even though Xiu cares for her deeply.

- Reactions to the two times Xiu raises the curtain:

+ The first time: Johnsy is afraid the last ivy leaf will fall, and Xiu is concerned.

+ The second time: Both Johnsy and Xiu are astonished because the leaf remains on the vine.

- The reason for Johnsy’s recovery:

+ She is inspired by the image of the ivy leaf, which still clings to life after the storm.

+ Johnsy doesn’t want to let down Xiu and Behrman.

- The ending leaves no verbal response or clear emotional state from Johnsy:

+ It’s an open ending, allowing readers to imagine Johnsy’s reaction.

+ The lingering sentiment of love, faith, and sacrifice remains.

Question 4 (page 90 of Literature 8, Volume 1):

- The story has two reversals:

+ Initially, Johnsy is ill and waiting to die, while Behrman is healthy.

+ Later, Johnsy recovers, while Behrman dies two days after the storm from being soaked in the rain.

- The reversal of the plot situation:

+ It creates surprise and interest.

+ It affirms that true art can bring revival.

+ It moves readers with the deep love and sacrifice between poor people.

1. Author

O. Henry (1862 – 1910) was an American writer renowned for his short stories. Many of his works have left a lasting impression on readers, including stories like: 'The Room Upstairs,' 'The Cop and the Wanderer,' and 'The Gift of the Magi.'

2. Work:

a) The excerpt in the textbook is from the first part of the short story of the same name. The author’s narrative style is captivating. The main character appears briefly and then disappears, leaving the sister (Xiu) and the readers anxiously watching the ivy leaf on the wall, deeply concerned for Johnsy’s fate. When the leaf doesn't fall and Johnsy slowly recovers, it is also the moment when the old artist, the creator of the only masterpiece in his life, passes away.

The death of the old artist leaves readers with a profound sadness, but it is not sorrowful because it sparks the flame of love for life, belief in the power and eternal nature of beauty.

b) Details in the text that reflect Behrman’s deep love and noble actions for Johnsy:

- Behrman and Xiu anxiously peer out the window, looking at the ivy vine. Then they exchange a brief glance, saying nothing.

- Behrman silently paints the leaf during the cold night with harsh winds and rain.

The author deliberately omits mentioning Behrman’s action of painting the leaf during the stormy night, which is the element that creates a surprising and emotional moment for the reader.

The ivy leaf that Behrman painted could be considered a masterpiece because not only is it so lifelike that Johnsy believes it is the real ivy leaf, but it is also painted with Behrman’s love for humanity. This painting (the leaf) ultimately brings life back to Johnsy.

c) Details confirming that Xiu was unaware of Behrman’s intention to paint the leaf to replace the last one:

- Prior to this, the two said nothing when Behrman posed as a model for Xiu.

- When Johnsy asked to pull the curtain, Xiu did so reluctantly.

- Xiu, just like Johnsy, was astonished to see: “After the fierce storm and the harsh winds… there was still an ivy leaf clinging to the brick wall.”

- Only when the doctor spoke did Xiu learn that Behrman was ill.

If Xiu had known Behrman’s plan, the story would have lost its intrigue, as there would no longer be any element of surprise.

d) Johnsy’s state of mind is that of a sick person, often obsessed with something. Thus, when it was believed that the last leaf’s fall would mark her end, the reader feels great tension.

The reason for Johnsy’s revival is the presence of the leaf amidst harsh natural conditions.

The author ends the story by having Xiu narrate, leaving Johnsy’s final thoughts or words unspoken, allowing readers to imagine or predict her emotions in their own way.

e) The excerpt from 'The Last Ivy Leaf' features two surprising plot reversals:

- Johnsy, who was ill and in despair, waiting for death, unexpectedly recovers.

- Behrman, who was healthy, only fell ill for two days but suddenly passed away.

These plot reversals, driven by artistic technique, generate excitement and interest for the reader.

I. Author Introduction

- O. Henry (1862 – 1910) was an American writer, particularly known for his short stories.

- His stories, such as 'The Room Upstairs,' 'The Cop and the Wanderer,' and 'The Gift of the Magi,' have left a deep impression on readers.

- O. Henry's works are often gentle yet convey a strong sense of humanity, showcasing compassion for the poor, and they are truly touching.

II. Work Introduction

1. Creation Context

'The Last Ivy Leaf' is one of O. Henry’s 600 short stories. This excerpt is from the final part of the story.

2. Structure

▪ Part 1 (from the beginning… to Holland): Johnsy is ill, waiting in despair for death.

▪ Part 2 (continuing… care and concern – that’s it): Johnsy overcomes the illness.

▪ Part 3 (remaining): The truth behind the masterpiece, the last ivy leaf.

3. Thematic Value

The short story holds a deep humanistic value, focusing on friendship and the love shared between people. Through this, the author conveys a message: Always keep the flame of hope alive, love one another, and let art serve humanity, with true, lasting art aimed at and for humanity.

4. Artistic Value

The story features several captivating situations, with a tightly organized structure, especially with the reversal of circumstances, which adds intrigue for the reader.

III. Comprehension

Question 1 - Page 90 Textbook

What details in the text reveal Behrman’s love and noble actions toward Johnsy? Why does the author omit the part where he painted the leaf in the snowy night? Why can we say that the last ivy leaf is a masterpiece?

Answer:

Details that show Behrman’s love for Johnsy:

▪ Behrman nervously looks out the window at the ivy plant.

➜ Behrman hurries to visit Johnsy, showing concern for her.

▪ Behrman secretly paints the leaf during the stormy night.

➜ His love and self-sacrifice for Johnsy.

- The author skips the detail of Behrman painting the leaf to maintain the surprise in the story’s conclusion.

- The ivy leaf becomes a masterpiece because it revives Johnsy’s will to live, helping her recover. Behrman sacrifices his life for this act.

Question 2 - Page 90 Textbook

Find evidence that proves Xiu did not know about Behrman’s intention to paint a leaf to replace the last one. Would the story be less interesting if Xiu had known? Why?

Answer:

- Xiu was unaware of Behrman’s plan to paint the leaf:

▪ Prior to this, neither spoke when Behrman posed as a model for Xiu.

▪ When Johnsy asked to open the curtain, Xiu did so with reluctance.

▪ Xiu was as surprised as Johnsy to see the last leaf still on the wall after the storm.

▪ Only when the doctor spoke did Xiu learn that Behrman was ill.

➜ If Xiu had known Behrman’s plan, the story would have lost its surprise and excitement. It would also show Xiu’s deep care and concern for Johnsy.

Question 3 - Page 90 Textbook

Imagine the tense emotions of Johnsy, Xiu, and the readers when Johnsy orders the curtain to be opened twice. What underlying cause created Johnsy’s anxious mood? Why does the author end the story with Xiu’s narration without letting Johnsy respond?

Answer:

- Johnsy’s mood is one of weakness and despair:

▪ She waits for the last ivy leaf to fall, marking the end of her life.

▪ Johnsy is indifferent, neglecting herself despite Xiu’s loving care.

- Reaction to the two curtain openings:

▪ First time: Johnsy fears the ivy leaf will fall, Xiu is worried.

▪ Second time: Both Johnsy and Xiu are stunned and amazed to see the leaf still clinging to the wall.

- The cause of Johnsy’s revival:

▪ She sees the ivy leaf, full of life, after the storm.

▪ Johnsy does not want to disappoint Xiu or Behrman.

- The author ends the story with Xiu’s words, leaving Johnsy’s emotions unspoken:

▪ An open ending, allowing readers to imagine Johnsy’s response.

▪ The aftertaste of humanity, faith, and sacrifice lingers on.

Question 4 - Page 90 Textbook

Prove that 'The Last Ivy Leaf' by O. Henry, through this excerpt, ends with two surprising and contrasting events, creating a phenomenon of two plot reversals, generating interest for the reader.

Answer:

- The story features two plot reversals:

▪ Initially, Johnsy is ill, waiting for death. Behrman is healthy.

▪ Later, Johnsy recovers, while Behrman dies after two days due to the stormy weather.

- The phenomenon of plot reversals:

▪ Creates surprise and excitement.

▪ Reinforces the idea that true art leads to revival.

▪ Makes the reader emotionally moved by the deep love and compassion between the poor characters.