Question

What is the purpose of the author’s description of Della’s hair and clothing?

Answer 1

The author is emphasizing Della’s poverty as she goes out to buy a gift for Jim.

Answer 2

The purpose of the author’s description of Della’s hair and clothing is to explain how precious and beautiful what Della has sacrificed in order to buy the gift for her husband. This part of a story is taken from "The Gift of the Magi" short story written by O. Henry in 1905. This short story tells about a couple who want to exchange gift for Christmas.