An Entertaining Window into the Creative Process

by Nancy F. Sackheim

If you're struggling with writer's block, or someone you love has writer's block, and is impossible to be around, it's time to take a night off and head to the movies. Specifically, head to see The Man Who Invented Christmas, now playing at selected theaters, hopefully somewhere near you.  The creators of this story behind the story of how Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol, have managed to turn the morass of writer's block into a highly entertaining romp as they imagine what his creative process might have looked like.

This writer's tale takes us into Dickens world as he struggles to recover from a couple of recent flops. Christmas 1843 is rapidly approaching and Dickens needs a new hit novel to salvage his writer's reputation, as well as pay for the lifestyle to which he and his family have become accustomed, but he's got nothing until he overhears the housemaid telling a Christmas tale to his children. This first bit of inspiration sends him careening into the creative process. During  reluctant forays into the real world he nicks names, characters, dialogue, and even whole scenes, takes them back into his imaginary world, and creates a magical tale of redemption.

While Dickens struggles to overcome writer's block and field constant interruptions from family and friends, his imaginary characters begin to write the story for him, berating him when he fails to listen or incorporate their suggestions. Scrooge, in particular, feels his side of the story is given short shrift, and blames Dickens' shortcomings as a writer.  Ultimately, all is resolved, and the story is told.  Writers leave the movie feeling they've met a kindred spirit, and those who love and live with writers may be a bit more understanding of these sometimes baffling creatures who often talk to themselves or spend hours staring into space. A thoroughly entertaining evening for all.