Podcast
Questions and Answers
What was Della trying to save money for?
What was Della trying to save money for?
- To pay for her living expenses
- To buy a new pier-glass
- To purchase a gift for Jim (correct)
- To buy a new hairstyle
How much money did Della have left to buy a present for Jim?
How much money did Della have left to buy a present for Jim?
- $10
- $20
- $5
- $1.87 (correct)
What was special about the pier-glass in Della's room?
What was special about the pier-glass in Della's room?
- It was a very expensive item
- It was a decorative piece
- It allowed Della to see her full length (correct)
- It was a family heirloom
What was Jim's most prized possession?
What was Jim's most prized possession?
Why did Della let her hair fall to its full length?
Why did Della let her hair fall to its full length?
How did Della feel when she cut her hair?
How did Della feel when she cut her hair?
What did Della wear when she left the flat?
What did Della wear when she left the flat?
What was Della's relationship with Jim?
What was Della's relationship with Jim?
How much money does Della have to buy Jim a present?
How much money does Della have to buy Jim a present?
What is the rent of the furnished flat?
What is the rent of the furnished flat?
How does Della get the grocer and the vegetable man to give her a good deal?
How does Della get the grocer and the vegetable man to give her a good deal?
What is the name of Della's husband?
What is the name of Della's husband?
What is Della's emotional state at the beginning of the story?
What is Della's emotional state at the beginning of the story?
What is the author's tone in the description of the flat?
What is the author's tone in the description of the flat?
What is Della looking at outside her window?
What is Della looking at outside her window?
What is the significance of the name 'Dillingham' in the story?
What is the significance of the name 'Dillingham' in the story?
Study Notes
The Struggle for Christmas Gifts
- Della counts her savings, $1.87, including 60 cents in pennies, to buy a Christmas present for her husband Jim.
- She lives in a furnished flat at $8 per week, which is modest and worn out.
- Jim's income has been reduced from $30 to $20 per week, affecting their lifestyle.
Della's Emotional Struggle
- Della breaks down in tears, feeling the pressure of not being able to afford a suitable gift for Jim.
- She reflects on how $20 per week is not enough to cover expenses and save for special occasions.
Della's Pride and Possessions
- Della takes great pride in her long, beautiful hair, which is one of the couple's most valued possessions.
- The other prized possession is Jim's gold watch, which has been passed down from his father and grandfather.
Della's Desperate Plan
- Della suddenly decides to sell her hair to buy a Christmas present for Jim, showing her selflessness and love for him.
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Description
Della struggles to find a Christmas gift for her husband Jim, dealing with their reduced income and modest living situation. She feels the pressure of not being able to afford a suitable gift. The story highlights the emotional struggle of Della.
