Loss In Gwilan's Harp, And The Last Leaf

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Each of the following short stories exhibits loss “Gwilan’s Harp” by Ursula K. LeGuin, “The Washwoman” by Isaac Singer, and “The Last Leaf” by O. Henry. In the first story loss of Gwilan’s harp causes, not just Gwilan pain, but many people who have experienced the beautiful music made with the harp. The loss experienced in “The Washwoman” happens when the washwoman suddenly disappears. In “The Last Leaf” the readers perceive that Johnsy will be the loss, but incredibly Mr. Behrman sacrifices his life. The pain caused by the loss of a friendly character, or object, can be felt through the pages.

In “Gwilan’s Harp” by Ursula K. LeGuin, Gwilan experiences the loss of her harp. Gwilan’s most prized possession and her means of living is suddenly taken from her when tragedy strikes and the harp is smashed by a cart being pulled by a frightened horse. “The cart had tipped over and dragged on it. It was in its case of leather and embroidered silk, but when, one –handed, she got the case out from under the wheel and opened it, she did not take out a harp, but a piece of wood, and another piece, and a tangle of strings, and a sliver of ivory, and a twisted shell of silver chased …show more content…
Henry, everyone experiences loss when Behrman dies of pneumonia after saving Johnsy’s life. When Johnsy sees that the last leaf has not fallen she decides that she will not die today. Little did she know but the last leaf was not a leaf at all. In fact it was Mr. Behrmans last work. Nobody expected Mr. Behrman, a supposed failure to paint a masterpiece that would save a life. So when Mr. Behrman dies, “Mr. Behrman died of pneumonia today in the hospital...” (O. Henry) readers are shocked with the sudden turn of events. Mr. Behrman’s tragic death comes suddenly after the uplifting knowledge that Johnsy will live. In this short story, loss can be felt through the pages as the characters, as well as the readers, are struck with the sudden tragic loss of our hero, Mr.
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