A Stirring Yule time Classic

For many people, it has become a holiday tradition to watch at least one film version of "A Christmas Carol". Some have a particular favorite version that they swear by. Others will watch the different adaptations to compare the virtues of each.

I've always tried to catch at least one version each year. It's always been an integral part of the Christmas season for me. This year I decided to add another twist to the old tradition. I thought it would be a real treat to actually reread the book. I hadn't read it since high school. I had a copy sitting on my shelf beckoning me. I blew off the dust and pulled it out.

With great anticipation, I opened the book to the first page. I knew I was in for a treat from the start. The preface Dickens wrote gives one an immediate sense of his amazing command of the English language: "I have endeavored in this ghostly little book, to raise the Ghost of an idea, which shall not put my readers out of humour with themselves, with each other, with the season, or with me. May it haunt their houses pleasantly and no one wish to lay it."

He signed this preface Their faithful friend and servant--CD. That alone conveys Dickens' gift for language. His introduction of Marley's ghost is deft. Reliving characters like Tiny Tim and Old Fezziwig is a sheer delight. Reading the book really is better. I will admit that the film versions did have some impact on my imaginary interaction with the characters. I did find myself visualizing the characters as portrayed in the various movie versions.

This wasn't entirely bad, though. I still got the benefit of reading Dickens original words. This classic from 1843 features some gorgeous writing. As a would be writer, it's a thrill to read such a master. I recommend anyone interested in writing to tackle such a master. I found myself enthralled by the visitation of each ghost. My spirit soared when Ebenezer awoke Christmas morning spiritually renewed. I myself felt a renewed understanding of what Christmas should mean.

The copy I have is a Dover Thrift Edition of the unabridged first version in 1843. It sells for a list price of $1.00. It's a thin little book that speaks volumes more than books five or ten times longer. I think I may be onto a new holiday tradition here. Reading this book every December might prove to be a rewarding habit.