'Twas the Night Before Christmas
By: Major Henry Livingston, Jr.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Day 8: Memories
Truman Capote’s A Christmas Memory.
Individual families have individual holiday traditions. We mark the coming of Christmas in various ways, but often share collective beliefs and habits. In this day and age, fruitcake may bring on grimaces by some and seem entirely old-fashioned. Be that as it may, fruitcake once held an important part in the preparation of Christmas. It was a way to express friendship and love to others by passing them on.
In Capote’s A Christmas Memory, Buddy shares his memory of the Christmas season in and around the Great Depression. Buddy resides in a home full of varied relatives. They are of humble means. Regardless, Buddy and his cousin (a women in her 60’s) make 30 cakes as gifts for others with the help of the Fruitcake Fund. Ingenious!
Herein is just a glimpse of this short story. In truth, it has so much more to offer. It speaks of long-distance relationships, true Christmas spirit and how strong memories can be. Enjoy this tale that almost never was a classic.
More info about the publication of this short story
The Random House Publishing Group
Individual families have individual holiday traditions. We mark the coming of Christmas in various ways, but often share collective beliefs and habits. In this day and age, fruitcake may bring on grimaces by some and seem entirely old-fashioned. Be that as it may, fruitcake once held an important part in the preparation of Christmas. It was a way to express friendship and love to others by passing them on.
In Capote’s A Christmas Memory, Buddy shares his memory of the Christmas season in and around the Great Depression. Buddy resides in a home full of varied relatives. They are of humble means. Regardless, Buddy and his cousin (a women in her 60’s) make 30 cakes as gifts for others with the help of the Fruitcake Fund. Ingenious!
Herein is just a glimpse of this short story. In truth, it has so much more to offer. It speaks of long-distance relationships, true Christmas spirit and how strong memories can be. Enjoy this tale that almost never was a classic.
More info about the publication of this short story
The Random House Publishing Group
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Day 7
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus (Francis P. Church)
In today’s world, children are often exposed to different views on holidays. We are a smaller world drawn together by technology. Therefore, it can be expected that what one child believes is challenged by their schoolmate. The belief in Santa Claus is a prime example. Even long ago, children questioned the existence of a gift-bearing man in red.
Virginia O’Hanlon, once upon a time, asked her father the very question. The response she received was something everyone, regardless of their beliefs, can appreciate this holiday season. It’s the strength and spirit of love and joy that really matters.
In today’s world, children are often exposed to different views on holidays. We are a smaller world drawn together by technology. Therefore, it can be expected that what one child believes is challenged by their schoolmate. The belief in Santa Claus is a prime example. Even long ago, children questioned the existence of a gift-bearing man in red.
Virginia O’Hanlon, once upon a time, asked her father the very question. The response she received was something everyone, regardless of their beliefs, can appreciate this holiday season. It’s the strength and spirit of love and joy that really matters.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Days 3, 4, 5, 6
Apologies for the late posting, you'll have to wait just a bit longer. This post will be a look at Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol.
Thank you for your patience.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Day 2: Gifts of Love
15 Days of Holiday Cheer in Literature
Day 2: The Gift of the Magi
Sometimes young marriages (just as seasoned ones) experience obstacles, especially in the way of finances. Money can be a burden and a blessing all at the same time. We want to give others holiday gifts that will surely astound and impress. Sometimes, though, even the simplest gifts bring pleasure and can cost nothing at all.
In O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi, a young couple, Della and Jim demonstrated how love can transcend both wealth and poverty. Sacrifice each of their most precious assets, this couple learns a lesson that tangible gifts often mean far less than we imagine.
Project Gutenberg: Online Text of The Gift of the Magi
Also found here: The Project Gutenberg, The Gift of the Magi
Day 2: The Gift of the Magi
Sometimes young marriages (just as seasoned ones) experience obstacles, especially in the way of finances. Money can be a burden and a blessing all at the same time. We want to give others holiday gifts that will surely astound and impress. Sometimes, though, even the simplest gifts bring pleasure and can cost nothing at all.
In O. Henry’s The Gift of the Magi, a young couple, Della and Jim demonstrated how love can transcend both wealth and poverty. Sacrifice each of their most precious assets, this couple learns a lesson that tangible gifts often mean far less than we imagine.
Project Gutenberg: Online Text of The Gift of the Magi
Also found here: The Project Gutenberg, The Gift of the Magi
Monday, December 10, 2007
15 Days of Holiday Cheer in Literature
And, we are back…..Thanks for your patience during our autumn hiatus.
Fine Writing is back and ready to share with you some fascinating literature news and events through 2008 and beyond.
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15 Days of Holiday Cheer in Literature
Day 1 - All Aboard
You may not be familiar with the name Chris Van Allsburg, but you surely have heard of The Polar Express. This instant Christmas classic has found a home in the hearts of many—young and old. So, if your Christmas spirit has been tested and your belief in good and hope has been shallow as of late, consider picking up this book. It presents a wonderful example of how the spirit of something is just as, if not more, important as tangible things. Having hope and faith in what cannot be seen is a true gift that we can each give ourselves.
Educators and librarians will surely love this site on how to best put Van Allsburg’s timeless tale use in the classroom: EDUCATION/CURRICULUM
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15 Days of Holiday Cheer in Literature
Day 1 - All Aboard
You may not be familiar with the name Chris Van Allsburg, but you surely have heard of The Polar Express. This instant Christmas classic has found a home in the hearts of many—young and old. So, if your Christmas spirit has been tested and your belief in good and hope has been shallow as of late, consider picking up this book. It presents a wonderful example of how the spirit of something is just as, if not more, important as tangible things. Having hope and faith in what cannot be seen is a true gift that we can each give ourselves.
Educators and librarians will surely love this site on how to best put Van Allsburg’s timeless tale use in the classroom: EDUCATION/CURRICULUM
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