The Chimes

Discover the timeless classic, The Chimes by Charles Dickens, a captivating novella that beautifully intertwines themes of redemption and social justice. Published by Hesperus Press as a paperback edition, The Chimes is an essential addition to your holiday reading list. This poignant tale, released in 2014, brings to life the struggles of the working poor through the eyes of Trotty, a humble messenger. On the eve of his daughter's wedding, Trotty's world is disrupted by poignant comments from wealthy citizens that haunt his thoughts. The narrative takes a mystical turn when Trotty encounters goblins in a belltower, who reveal the grim futures that await his loved ones. Dickens crafts a compelling narrative filled with hope and contemplation, making The Chimes not just a festive story, but a reflection on societal values. With 160 pages of vivid storytelling, The Chimes reminds readers of the importance of compassion and community. Whether a long-time Dickens fan or a new reader, you will be enchanted by this tale that strives to uplift and inspire. Perfect for book lovers seeking classic literature that resonates with contemporary themes, The Chimes is a must-have for your bookshelf. Immerse yourself in this holiday classic that emphasizes love, family, and the potential for change—buy your copy today and let the spirit of the season fill your heart.

Author: Charles Dickens Publisher: Hesperus Press
Bind: paperback

Pages: 160
Publication Date: 20-11-2014

In the second of his series of Christmas books, Charles Dickens wrote The Chimes one year after A Christmas Carol. Tackling familiar themes of redemption, social injustice and family, it is a story of hope and contemplation and is a moving festive read well worth discovering. As Trotty's working day as a lowly messenger draws to a close, his daughter, Meg, arrives with her fiance Richard in tow, and they proudly announce their wedding for the following day. This is cause for celebration of course, although their happiness is tempered by the comments of an alderman and other well-off citizens on the rights of the poor to marry. During the night, Trotty hears the chimes of a church bell and ventures out to climb the belltower. At the top he is greeted by goblins who tell him that he died during the climb and must now spend his time watching his friends and family live out their lives. What he witnesses makes for grim viewing: Richard turns to drink and dies penniless, leaving a widowed Meg to cope with bringing up their child; Trotty's friend Will is in and out of prison, and Will's daughter Lilian ends up falling into prostitution. But the worst is yet to come. Destitute and desperate, Meg contemplates drowning herself and her young child. Wild with fear, Trotty cries out that he has learnt his lesson and suddenly his daughter is able to see him. At the last second, he rescues her from the brink of destruction. Trotty wakes as if from a dream to the bells chiming out the beginning of a new year, and finds that no time has passed and it is New Year's Day. But as he sees his daughter cheerfully preparing for her wedding day, he is baffled as to whether this is just a dream within a dream.