Dickens

After reading this article by Matthew Davis and watching this video, I believe I have a better grasp as to why Charles Dickens has had such a strong and lasting effect in society. Although Dickens' novels are no quick or easy read, I would definitely agree with Davis' comment on "the richness and variety of Dickens' sprawling plots, vivid characters, comedy and social commentary." Even after reading only the first few chapters of A Tale of Two Cities, I found myself in awe at Dickens' masterful writing skills. He has a wonderful ability to make characters seem real, and I have seen my connection to them and their situations grow as I have continued reading. By the end of the book, I definitely think that I will have grown so close to some of the characters that I will continue to remember them and "return to them" throughout my life.

"But does any of this make it relevant to read Dickens today?" was one of the questions that Davis mentioned in his article. My answer to that question is a definite yes. Davis then mentions an author who recently wrote a biography on Dickens' life. This author, Claire Tomalin, mentioned that, "Why are we still reading him today, and is he relevant, are really two separate questions." I believe she makes a good point. Dickens' writings truly provide his readers with a certain timeless relatable aspect that I believe many modern works lack. He includes topics, situations, and feelings that society as a whole can understand and see in their own lives. I believe that Dickens has the right focus on what relates human beings as a whole and not on what may characterize one certain time period.

 Sir Francis Bacon said, "Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested: that is, some books are to be read only in parts, others to be read, but not curiously, and some few to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention." When I think of Dickens' books, I most definitely believe that they are some of the few books that are worthy of being chewed and digested. I think that the timelessness and relatability of his works truly make them books that any person could learn from and grow through if willing to take the time to understand and comprehend them.