Frases de O presente dos Reis Magos

9 versos famosos de The Gift of the Magi (1905), de O. Henry, palavra por palavra, com o significado de cada um e sua origem.

9 min de leitura

1. 1

   One dollar and eighty-seven cents.

   Significado: Della’s tiny savings establish the poverty that makes buying a Christmas gift so difficult.

   NarratorParágrafo 1Copiar
2. 2

   Which instigates the moral reflection that life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating.

   Significado: The narrator humorously suggests that everyday life contains more small sorrows than moments of happiness.

   NarratorParágrafo 2Copiar
3. 3

   It was like him. Quietness and value—the description applied to both.

   Significado: The simple, valuable watch chain reflects Jim’s modest character and genuine worth.

   NarratorParágrafo 17Copiar
4. 4

   She had a habit for saying little silent prayers about the simplest everyday things, and now she whispered: “Please God, make him think I am still pretty.”

   Significado: Della fears that losing her beautiful hair might change how Jim sees her.

   DellaParágrafo 22Copiar

Um conto por dia na sua caixa de entrada Seu e-mail Envie-me contos Um conto clássico grátis todas as manhãs. Cancele o recebimento quando quiser.

5. 5

   “Don’t you like me just as well, anyhow? I’m me without my hair, ain’t I?”

   Significado: Della asks Jim to recognize that her identity and worth remain unchanged despite her haircut.

   DellaParágrafo 28Copiar
6. 6

   Maybe the hairs of my head were numbered,” she went on with sudden serious sweetness, “but nobody could ever count my love for you.

   Significado: Della contrasts her countable hairs with the immeasurable love that motivated her sacrifice.

   DellaParágrafo 31Copiar
7. 7

   I don’t think there’s anything in the way of a haircut or a shave or a shampoo that could make me like my girl any less.

   Significado: Jim reassures Della that his love does not depend on her appearance.

   JimParágrafo 34Copiar
8. 8

   “Dell,” said he, “let’s put our Christmas presents away and keep ’em a while. They’re too nice to use just at present. I sold the watch to get the money to buy your combs.

   Significado: Jim reveals his matching sacrifice, making both presents temporarily unusable while proving their mutual devotion.

   JimParágrafo 42Copiar
9. 9

   But in a last word to the wise of these days let it be said that of all who give gifts these two were the wisest. Of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are wisest. Everywhere they are wisest. They are the magi.

   Significado: The narrator calls the couple truly wise because their selfless love matters more than the practical usefulness of their gifts.

   NarratorParágrafo 43Copiar

Perguntas sobre estes versos

What is the significance of the opening sentence in The Gift of the Magi?

The precise amount emphasizes Della’s poverty and careful saving. It establishes the financial obstacle that drives her search for a meaningful Christmas present.

Why does the narrator call Jim and Della the wisest gift-givers?

Both surrender their most treasured possession to make the other happy. Although their gifts become temporarily unusable, their sacrifices reveal that love and generosity give presents their deepest value.