Publisher's Synopsis
The Chimes is a novella written by Charles Dickens and published in 1844. The story is set on New Year's Eve and follows the life of a poor man named Toby Veck, who works as a porter for a wealthy family in London. Toby is disillusioned with his life and feels hopeless about his future. However, he is visited by spirits who show him the consequences of his actions and the impact he has on the people around him.The spirits take Toby on a journey through time and space, where he witnesses the lives of people who are worse off than him. The Chimes is a social commentary on the inequalities of Victorian society, and the struggles faced by the working-class people. The novella highlights the importance of empathy, kindness, and community in overcoming adversity.The Chimes is a beautifully written and poignant story that explores themes of poverty, social injustice, and the power of hope. Dickens' vivid descriptions and engaging characters make this book a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today.Anon, it comes up stealthily, and creeps along the walls, seeming to read, in whispers, the Inscriptions sacred to the Dead. At some of these, it breaks out shrilly, as with laughter; and at others, moans and cries as if it were lamenting. It has a ghostly sound too, lingering within the altar; where it seems to chaunt, in its wild way, of Wrong and Murder done, and false Gods worshipped, in defiance of the Tables of the Law, which look so fair and smooth, but are so flawed and broken.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.