O. Henry’s Short Story ‘What You Want’

O. Henry’s short story shows that the happiest and most contented person is one with the simplest needs.

Cropped image of "Contentment" by Jules Breton. Public Domain

In his short story “What You Want,“ O. Henry contemplates the true meaning of contentment. The author sets up the story as if it will be a fairy godmother tale, but he shatters those expectations with a moral that is truly meaningful.

Millionaire Tom Crowley lives and prospers in Bagdad-on-the-Subway (better known as New York City), and calls himself a caliph. The author notes: “In these times, to be called a caliph you must have money.” Crowley possesses “$42,000,000 in preferred stocks and bonds with solid gold edges.”