Reprinted Pieces   By: Charles Dickens (1812-1870)

Reprinted Pieces by Charles Dickens is a collection of lesser-known works by the legendary author, showcasing his incredible range and ability to captivate readers with his unique storytelling style. While not as widely recognized as his more famous novels, this collection offers a delightful glimpse into Dickens' lesser-known works and lesser-explored themes.

The book is divided into two sections, featuring short stories and sketches that were originally published in various periodicals during Dickens' prolific career. Each piece offers a distinct narrative and highlights different aspects of Dickens' writing prowess. From the humorous and satirical tales to the darker stories that touch upon social issues, this collection is a true testament to Dickens' versatility as an author.

One of the standout stories in this compilation is "The Begging-Letter Writer," a scathing portrayal of a manipulative individual who preys upon sympathy to extract money from unsuspecting recipients. This tale, with its sharp social commentary and wit, showcases Dickens' ability to shine a light on the darker aspects of society with unflinching honesty.

Another noteworthy inclusion is "The Long Voyage," a haunting narrative that delves into the psychological depths of its characters. Dickens masterfully explores the themes of isolation, guilt, and redemption through the lens of a ship's voyage, and his vivid descriptions and intricate characterizations make this story truly gripping.

What makes Reprinted Pieces even more captivating is its inclusion of Dickens' journalistic sketches. These short pieces provide a glimpse into the author's observations and experiences, offering a compelling mix of commentary, satire, and humor. From his accounts of public executions to his reflections on the idiosyncrasies of everyday life, these sketches demonstrate Dickens' ability to infuse ordinary situations with his distinctive storytelling magic.

While the collection may not be as cohesive or thematically focused as his renowned novels, Reprinted Pieces allows readers to witness Dickens' evolution as a writer. It serves as a testament to his skill at crafting engaging narratives, both in the long-form format he is celebrated for and in shorter, more concise storytelling.

Although Reprinted Pieces may not have the same level of recognition as some of Dickens' other works, it is a gem that deserves to be unearthed and appreciated. With its varied selection of stories and sketches, this collection offers a fresh perspective on one of literature's greatest authors. Whether you are a die-hard Dickens fan or a newcomer to his world, Reprinted Pieces is a delightful journey through the lesser-explored corners of Dickens' vast imagination.

First Page:

Sitting on my ruddy hearth in the twilight of New Year's Eve, I find incidents of travel rise around me from all the latitudes and longitudes of the globe. They observe no order or sequence, but appear and vanish as they will 'come like shadows, so depart.' Columbus, alone upon the sea with his disaffected crew, looks over the waste of waters from his high station on the poop of his ship, and sees the first uncertain glimmer of the light, 'rising and falling with the waves, like a torch in the bark of some fisherman,' which is the shining star of a new world. Bruce is caged in Abyssinia, surrounded by the gory horrors which shall often startle him out of his sleep at home when years have passed away. Franklin, come to the end of his unhappy overland journey would that it had been his last! lies perishing of hunger with his brave companions: each emaciated figure stretched upon its miserable bed without the power to rise: all, dividing the weary days between their prayers, their remembrances of the dear ones at home, and conversation on the pleasures of eating; the last named topic being ever present to them, likewise, in their dreams... Continue reading book >>