It is not very often that we get to read a story told by a dog. However O. Henry’s “Memoirs of a Yellow Dog” gives us a peek through the dog Lovey’s mind. Lovey feels a strong despise for his mistress — a fat lady who does nothing but eat and gossip. At the same time he is determined to save his owner who is constantly working and trying to provide for his unthankful wife.
This comic tale about the love and loyalty between a pet and his owner is turned upside down. But this is exactly why O. Henry’s stories with surprise endings are so popular and loved.
William Sydney Porter, better known as O. Henry, was an American writer who lived in the late 19th century. He gains wide popularity with his short stories which often take place either in New York or some small American towns. The plot twists and the surprise endings are a typical and integral part of O. Henry’s short stories. Some of his best known works are “The Gift of the Magi”, “The Cop and the Anthem”, “A Retrieved Reformation”. His stories often deal with ordinary people and the individual aspects of life.
As a result of the outstanding literature legacy that O. Henry left behind, there is an American annual award after his name, given to exceptional short stories.
