What do an old man, a tree and a dog have in common?
This short story is one of those which follows in a long tradition of Christmas tales in English/American literature. It is esssentially a moral tale, as all such stories, so the values it puts forward are likely to appeal not only to Christians, but to readers of all faiths.
We hope you enjoy reading it and we look forward to seeing your comments here.
Cheers - Chris
The Philanthropist's Christimas_mp3
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Comments
Thank you so much, Chris, for picking this wonderful story.
Thinking of your introductory question - "What do an old man, a tree and a dog have in common?" - I would say they all are a creation of God.
As for this story, I think there are two philanthropists: Mr Carter, the renowned one, and Jimmy, the true generous soul.His character is a symbol of innocence, kindness, benevolence, affability. He is very much concerned about Bill, and is eager to provide him with cheerfulness, joy, happiness.
Jimmy's inspiration, on asking Mr Carter for pretending as if he were Santa Claus, has so much of innocence and gracefulness as a gesture of love. So, we could say that Jimmy encompasses what is common to all faiths: love.
It seems to me he is instrumental in leading the philanthropist, Mr Carter, unto a positive change in his soul.
And I wonder... if it hadn't been for the dog, the little terrier, would Mr Carter have accompanied Jimmy to Bill's room?...
J.W.Linn reminds us of something important: irreverence, cynicism, rigidity, toughness are not the right path in our life.
Cheers and season's greetings to all!
Maria
Hi all,
To wish season´s greetings to all was a nice element Maria has added to the taste of this story. there´s a lot of kindness in this story, almost all characters show us the positive side of their hearts and are enjoying the Christmas.
I think what the old man, the tree and the dog have in common is that they´re all shown as Christmas gifts to Bill (the old man being the Santa Claus, the tree which makes Bill happy, and Pete - Skiddles- who Bill loves too much) and they move from one place to another without choosing where to go .
The narrative invites the reader to play with the playful Jimmy (Another Philanthropist according to Maria), it invite us to reflect upon the poor and rich with Mr. Carter´s reflections (the Philanthropist is happy to share his riches with the needy but he is also unhappy at knowing that even with his help to the poor there are still more people in need) the story makes Christmas a happy time for enjoying.
Thanks for the story.
Tanguene
Hi Maria, Tanguene and All
Maybe we have three philantropists if you think of Skiddles. I know it can be quite funny to think like that, but the dog running away was actually what puts everything in motion in this story and makes the plot possible.
What about the language in this text? Would you consider it suitable for intermediate students? Would it be possible to use it with our students? And if so, what would you do with it?
Looking forward to reading as many ideas as possible.
Cheers - Chris
Hi,
It's funny to think of Skiddles as another philantropist. He's a nice mate, he makes all the people who come across him feel happy. He's a philantropist who gives joy to peolple.
Best wishes,
Tanguene
Hi Chris, Tanguene and All
Chris, I confess I smiled when you referred to Skiddles as another philanthropist... It really was a funny thought. He did play his great part adding that joy and happiness around him. "Imagine all the people..." doing so :)
Regarding the language in this text, I think the short dialogues mixed in the narrative are suitable for intermediate students. But it is likely they could find some difficulty when it comes to Sniffen's speech... Anyway it would also be relevant to call the learners' attention to non-standard English.
I think we could suggest the following: 1. A role-play activity aimed at developing speaking skills; 2. Re-telling the story (improving speaking and/or writing skills); 3. Focusing on grammar: Transferring some direct speeches into reported ones.
Cheers,
Maria
Hi Maria
Thanks for your ideas. I really liked the role-playing one :)
I agree that the non-standard speech of Sniffen could be a challenge. I wonder why it was written like that...do you remember a similar discussion we had about The Verger?
Have a nice Sunday
Chris
Hi Everyone
I've just come across this article in The Guardian and thought of sharing it with you.
Season Greetings
You can read Clement C Moore's poem clicking on the Project Gutenberg link below. There are nice illustrations as well.
Twas Night Before Christmas
I hope you enjoy it. Comments? :)
Cheers - Chris
Hi Chris,
Thanks, Chris, for your Sunday wishes! So sorry for this delayed reply... Retired and very busy, fortunately:)
Still regarding J.W.Linn's story: I think the writer has also deliberately included that character, Sniffen, as a representative of a lower social rank, contrasting with Mr Carter's speeches. Sniffen's talk reveals his simplicity and helpfulness. To some extent this reminds us of the verger and the vicar through their personal profile, background education and language.
All the best,
Maria
Hi Chris and All,
Thanks for the new lovely seasonal gift! This classic poem has experienced such a long journey, and keeps being remembered today. It certainly makes many readers revive ancient traditions within their families and communities.
Dr. Clement C. Moore's children must have been inspiring pioneers in poem reciting:)
Tis... always nice to bring St Nicholas and his magical arrival to arouse the children's curiosity from different parts of the world... and share those innocent experiences with other childrem who might be so far from living it!
Season's Greetings to you, your family & All ELT e-Reading Group
Maria
It is a wonderful story about giving as part of a routine or fame or giving from the heart. Philanthropy is a very delicate matter. It is not easy to help others and feel you are fully involved with heart and mind. Mr. Carter offered something he cared for deeply and this made his act entirely human.