The shadows of our own desires stand between us and our better angels, and thus their brightness is eclipsed

The shadows of our own desires stand between us and our better angels, and thus their brightness is eclipsed

In the works of Charles Dickens, the theme of desire and its impact on human behavior is a recurring motif. Dickens often explores the ways in which our own desires can lead us astray, causing us to act in ways that are contrary to our better nature. In his novels, the shadows of our own desires often stand between us and our better angels, casting a darkness over our actions and clouding our judgment.

One of the most famous examples of this theme can be found in Dickens' novel "Great Expectations." The protagonist, Pip, is consumed by his desire to rise above his humble origins and become a gentleman. This desire leads him to abandon his true friends and family, betraying those who have shown him kindness in pursuit of his own selfish ambitions. In the end, Pip realizes the folly of his desires and the harm they have caused, but the damage has already been done.

Similarly, in "A Christmas Carol," the character of Ebenezer Scrooge is driven by his desire for wealth and material possessions. This desire has turned him into a miserly and cold-hearted man, estranged from his fellow human beings and blind to the suffering of others. It is only through the intervention of the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future that Scrooge is able to see the error of his ways and rediscover his better angels.

In both of these examples, Dickens illustrates how our own desires can lead us down a dark path, obscuring the light of our better angels. The shadows of our desires can cloud our judgment, causing us to act in ways that are harmful to ourselves and others. It is only by recognizing and confronting these shadows that we can hope to overcome them and allow our better angels to shine through.