Authors Writing in the Spirit of a Master
Charles Dickens, the literary giant of Victorian England, captivated readers with his intricate plots, larger-than-life characters, and sharp social commentary. His influence continues to resonate with writers today, inspiring a new generation of authors who, while forging their own paths, echo the master’s touch. This article delves into the world of these modern-day Dickensians, exploring how they capture the essence of Dickens’s storytelling, character development, and social awareness in their unique ways. To identify these authors, we examined articles and blog posts discussing modern writers similar to Dickens, explored books by contemporary authors compared to him, and investigated authors known for their social commentary, humour, and vivid character descriptions.
Donna Tartt: Weaving Dickensian Tapestries
Donna Tartt, the celebrated author of “The Goldfinch,” has often been praised for her Dickensian approach to storytelling. Like Dickens, she crafts sprawling narratives with intricate plots and memorable characters, evoking the spirit of his classic works. In “The Goldfinch,” Tartt introduces us to Theo Decker, a young boy whose life is irrevocably altered by a tragic incident at an art museum. Much like Dickens’s protagonists, Theo navigates a world filled with darkness and light, encountering a cast of eccentric characters along the way. Tartt’s masterful use of language, keen eye for detail, and ability to create intimacy and grandeur in her narratives solidify her position as a modern-day Dickensian1.
Tartt’s Dickensian influence is evident in several key aspects of “The Goldfinch.” The novel, with its multitude of characters from various walks of life, mirrors the breadth and complexity of Dickens’s works1. Furthermore, Tartt masterfully employs coincidence and fate to propel Theo’s journey, a technique reminiscent of Dickens’s narrative style1. The novel takes readers on a journey across different locations and delves into numerous subplots, mirroring the sprawling nature of Dickens’s works1. Tartt also explores social issues and class disparities through her characters and their experiences, much like Dickens did in his time2. Notably, Tartt includes a character named “Pippa” in “The Goldfinch,” a clear homage to Pip in “Great Expectations.” 3 Interestingly, while “The Goldfinch” draws comparisons to Dickens, Tartt’s other novels, “The Little Friend” and “The Secret History,” have been likened to “To Kill a Mockingbird” and “Brideshead Revisited” respectively, showcasing her versatility as a writer2. Ultimately, “The Goldfinch” is a gripping tale that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end, reminiscent of the captivating narratives that Dickens was known for1.
Sarah Waters: Victorian Reflections with a Modern Lens
Sarah Waters, a celebrated author of historical fiction, has been compared to Dickens for her ability to transport readers to the Victorian era while infusing her narratives with a distinctly modern sensibility. Her novels, such as “Fingersmith” and “Tipping the Velvet,” 4 explore themes of social class, gender, and sexuality within the context of Victorian society. Waters’s meticulous research and attention to detail create a richly immersive reading experience, reminiscent of Dickens’s evocative portrayals of Victorian London4.
Waters’s novels often feature protagonists who embark on journeys of self-discovery, encountering a variety of characters and situations along the way, similar to the picaresque structure found in many of Dickens’s works5. Like Dickens, she delves into social issues such as class inequality and gender roles, offering insightful commentary on the complexities of Victorian society5. However, Waters goes a step further by subverting traditional Victorian narratives and focusing on LGBTQ+ characters and themes, bringing a modern perspective to historical fiction5. Her first three novels, in particular, have been likened to the works of Dickens and Wilkie Collins, showcasing her deep appreciation for Victorian literary traditions4. Furthermore, Waters’s novels often feature elements of crime and darkness similar to those found in Dickens’s works, adding another layer of complexity to her narratives6. Waters herself acknowledges the influence of Dickens, stating her love for “story-telling, story-reading, and story-pinching,” highlighting the importance of storytelling in her own work4.
Peter Carey: Reimagining “Great Expectations”
Peter Carey, a two-time Booker Prize winner, pays homage to Dickens in his novel “Jack Maggs,” a reimagining of “Great Expectations.” Carey’s novel delves into the life of Jack Maggs, a convict who becomes a benefactor to a young boy named Henry Phipps. Carey’s exploration of themes such as social class, exile, and the complexities of father-son relationships resonates with Dickens’s exploration of similar themes in “Great Expectations.” 7
“Jack Maggs” is a direct reimagining of “Great Expectations,” drawing inspiration from Dickens’s characters and plot while offering a fresh perspective7. Carey, like Dickens, examines the impact of social class on individuals and their relationships, highlighting the disparities and injustices of the time7. However, Carey adds a unique twist by blurring the lines between convict and gentleman in his portrayal of Jack Maggs, challenging conventional social hierarchies in a way that echoes Dickens’s own nuanced depiction of convicts8. Carey’s portrayal of Jack Maggs as a complex and sympathetic character echoes Dickens’s ability to create multi-dimensional characters with depth and nuance8. Furthermore, Carey incorporates literary allusions and intertextuality, referencing Dickens’s work and other classic literature to enrich his narrative8. This “story-pinching,” as Sarah Waters might call it, allows Carey to reimagine “Great Expectations” through a post-modern lens, adding layers of meaning and complexity to the original story4.
Rohinton Mistry: Finding Dickens in Bombay
Rohinton Mistry, acclaimed for his novel “A Fine Balance,” has been compared to Dickens for his panoramic portrayal of Indian society. Set against the backdrop of political turmoil in 1970s Bombay, “A Fine Balance” interweaves the lives of four individuals from different backgrounds, capturing their struggles, resilience, and interconnectedness. Mistry’s Dickensian scope is evident in his intricate plotting, vivid characterisations, and unflinching depiction of social injustice and human resilience7.
Mistry, like Dickens, masterfully depicts the impact of social and political upheaval on ordinary lives1. His Bombay, with its teeming crowds and stark inequalities, becomes a character in itself, much like Dickens’s London. He creates a deeply immersive world filled with characters from all strata of society, whose lives are intricately interwoven1. Mistry’s writing, rich in evocative descriptions, creates a vivid sense of place and atmosphere, transporting readers to the heart of India1. He doesn’t shy away from depicting the plight of marginalised communities and the harsh realities of poverty and oppression, echoing Dickens’s social conscience7. Interestingly, Mistry’s style has been compared not only to Dickens but also to Victor Hugo and Thomas Hardy, highlighting the breadth and depth of his literary influences9. Furthermore, critics have drawn parallels between Mistry’s exploration of urban spaces in “Family Matters” and Dickens’s portrayal of London in “Great Expectations,” suggesting a shared fascination with the complexities of city life10.
E.L. Doctorow: “America’s Charles Dickens”
E.L. Doctorow, often hailed as “America’s Charles Dickens,” 11 earned this title through his masterful novel “Ragtime.” Set in early 20th century New York, “Ragtime” captures the dynamism and social complexities of a rapidly changing America. Doctorow’s novel, like Dickens’s works, interweaves fictional characters with historical figures, creating a rich tapestry of American life. His exploration of themes such as immigration, social class, and racial tensions resonates with Dickens’s own social commentary7.
“Ragtime” is a Dickensian symphony of American life, with its complex characters and immersive plot drawing readers into the world of early 20th century New York7. Doctorow masterfully blends fiction and history, creating a narrative that is both informative and thought-provoking7. Like Dickens, he uses his fiction to comment on social issues and historical events, offering a critical perspective on the American experience7. His novel encompasses a wide range of social classes and historical events, offering a panoramic view of a particular time and place, much like Dickens’s own sweeping narratives7.
Barbara Kingsolver: A “David Copperfield” for Modern Times
Barbara Kingsolver’s “Demon Copperhead” has been recognized as a modern reimagining of Dickens’s “David Copperfield.” Set in Appalachia, Kingsolver’s novel follows the life of Demon Copperhead, a young boy who faces poverty, neglect, and the opioid crisis. Kingsolver’s novel, like Dickens’s classic, explores themes of social injustice, resilience, and the power of the human spirit12.
Kingsolver deliberately used “David Copperfield” as a structural template for “Demon Copperhead,” adapting its narrative and themes to a contemporary setting12. She explained her choice by stating that Dickens “showed me the way into a story that I had found impossible to write for several years.” 14 Kingsolver wanted to address the opioid crisis in Appalachia and the historical exploitation of the region, and she found inspiration in Dickens’s own social commentary and focus on the plight of the vulnerable14. Like Dickens, Kingsolver uses her novel to address social issues such as poverty, addiction, and the failings of the social care system13. Her portrayal of Demon Copperhead as a resilient and resourceful protagonist echoes Dickens’s focus on characters who overcome adversity13. Kingsolver’s writing, like Dickens’s, is rich in evocative language and imagery, creating a vivid sense of place and atmosphere15.
John Irving: Echoes of Dickens in a Postmodern World
John Irving, known for his novels such as “The World According to Garp” and “The Cider House Rules,” has acknowledged the influence of Dickens on his writing. Irving’s novels often feature sprawling narratives, eccentric characters, and social commentary reminiscent of Dickens’s style. Irving’s Dickensian tendencies are evident in his exploration of complex themes, attention to detail, and ability to create humorous and poignant moments within his narratives16.
Irving’s novels often feature expansive storylines, unexpected plot twists, and a large cast of characters, similar to the narrative style of Dickens17. Like Dickens, he incorporates social and political commentary into his novels, addressing issues such as abortion rights, LGBT rights, and anti-war sentiments16. Irving’s novels are often driven by the development of complex and memorable characters, echoing Dickens’s ability to create vivid and relatable individuals17. Irving considers the 19th-century novel, including the works of Dickens, as a model for his writing, drawing inspiration from their structure and themes18.
Anthony Trollope: A Victorian Counterpart
Anthony Trollope, a contemporary of Dickens, wrote sweeping novels that explored the social landscape of Victorian England. His works, such as “The Warden” and the “Palliser” novels, offer intricate plots, engaging characters, and insightful social commentary, reminiscent of Dickens’s literary style6.
Elizabeth Gaskell: Social Realism and Human Connection
Elizabeth Gaskell, another Victorian-era writer, shared Dickens’s focus on social realism and his ability to create compelling characters. Her novels, such as “North and South” and “Mary Barton,” explore similar themes to Dickens, including social inequality, poverty, and the struggles of the working class6.
Wilkie Collins: Master of Atmosphere and Intrigue
Wilkie Collins, a contemporary of Dickens, is known for his atmospheric descriptions of Victorian London and his intricate plots. His novels, such as “The Woman in White” and “The Moonstone,” share similarities with Dickens’s works in their exploration of mystery, suspense, and social commentary4.
Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Dickensian Storytelling
The legacy of Charles Dickens extends far beyond the Victorian era, finding new life in the works of modern-day Dickensians. These contemporary authors, each with their unique voice and style, capture the essence of Dickens’s storytelling, his social awareness, and his ability to create characters that resonate with readers across generations. They demonstrate the enduring power of Dickensian themes – the exploration of social injustice, the resilience of the human spirit, the complexities of human relationships – in a world grappling with new challenges.
These authors, while drawing inspiration from Dickens, also adapt his legacy to contemporary concerns. Kingsolver tackles the opioid crisis in Appalachia, mirroring Dickens’s focus on social reform in Victorian England. Waters brings LGBTQ+ perspectives to Victorian settings, subverting traditional narratives and offering a more inclusive vision of the past. Doctorow captures the dynamism of early 20th century America, weaving a Dickensian tapestry of a nation in transition. Carey reimagines “Great Expectations” through a post-modern lens, adding layers of complexity to a classic tale. Mistry finds Dickens in Bombay, portraying the social and political upheaval of India with Dickensian scope and compassion. And Tartt, with her intricate plots and unforgettable characters, reminds us of the immersive power of Dickensian storytelling.
The modern-day Dickensians ensure that the spirit of Dickens lives on, not as mere imitation, but as a vibrant and evolving literary tradition. They demonstrate that the concerns that animated Dickens’s work – poverty, inequality, social injustice – remain relevant today, and that his techniques – intricate plotting, vivid characterization, sharp social commentary – continue to resonate with readers and inspire writers. In their hands, the Dickensian legacy becomes a powerful tool for understanding the human condition in the 21st century.
Works cited
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The Original Writers Group 