Heart of the West: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
Heart of the West: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

Heart of the West is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Henry, O. (1862–1910).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"Heart of the West" by O. Henry is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century. This work explores themes of love, identity, and the rugged life of the American West through a series of interrelated tales. The stories feature various characters, including Webb Yeager, who struggles with his role as a "prince-consort" to a cattle queen, and Baldy Woods, his supportive companion, as they navigate their lives in the often humorous and paradoxical world of the Texas cattle industry. The beginning of "Heart of the West" introduces us to Webb Yeager and Baldy Woods discussing Webb's dissatisfaction in his marriage to Santa McAllister, who has become dominant in the management of her ranch. As they share a drink together, Baldy tries to console Webb, suggesting that marrying a queen should elevate a man's status rather than diminish it. The narrative quickly showcases Webb's feelings of inadequacy and longing for autonomy in his relationship. The opening also hints at playful banter and the camaraderie common among cowboys, setting the tone for a poignant exploration of gender roles, love, and desire in the unique setting of the American West.
Book and edition facts
- Title: Heart of the West
- Author credits: Henry, O. (1862–1910)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- American fiction -- 20th century
- Short stories, American
- West (U.S.) -- Social life and customs -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: American Literature
- Category: Short Stories
Read this edition
View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.


