A Personal Insult

"A Personal Insult" is a short story by O. Henry that delves into themes of pride, social status, and the complexities of human relationships. The narrative follows a wealthy businessman who confronts a young, struggling artist after overhearing an affront to his character. The story navigates the delicate balance between personal dignity and social perceptions, ultimately revealing deeper truths about the characters involved. With O. Henry's signature wit and twist ending, the tale highlights how misunderstandings can lead to unexpected realizations and connections.

• Short story

								
Young lady in Houston became engaged last summer to one of the famous
shortstops of the Texas baseball league.

Last week he broke the engagement, and this is the reason why.

He had a birthday last Tuesday and she sent him a beautiful bound and
illustrated edition of Coleridge's famous poem, "The Ancient Mariner."

The hero of the diamond opened the book with a puzzled look.

"What's dis bloomin' stuff about, anyways?" he said, and read:

It is the Ancient Mariner

And he stoppeth one of three--

The famous shortstop threw the book out the window, stuck out his chin
and said:

"No Texas sis can gimme de umpire face like dat. I swipes nine daisy
cutters outer ten dat comes in my garden, I do."
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