What is the thesis of the Christmas gift by Robert Penn Warren?

Answer 1

I think the 'gift' in this story is the kindness that was shown to the boy in the country store as well as the cordial/respectful way the doctor treated him on the ride back to his family's home.

Answer 2

The gift is the half stick of red candy that Sill Lancaster give Doc Small. Sill and his family are poor, and Sill has not had an opportunity to give before. Giving something even so small is quite an experience for him. I think he liked it. It's December, a season of giving.