A Christmas carol

•

Scrooge's Miserliness: The phrase "darkness was cheap" reflects Scrooge's obsession with saving money, emphasizing his frugality and unwillingness to spend even on basic comforts like light.

•

Symbolism of Darkness: Darkness symbolizes isolation, coldness, and a lack of warmth, mirroring Scrooge's emotional detachment from others and his rejection of human connection.

•

Preference for Isolation: By stating that Scrooge "liked it," Dickens shows his contentment with solitude and rejection of society, highlighting his loneliness as self-imposed.

•

Foreshadowing Redemption: The image of Scrooge thriving in darkness contrasts with the eventual transformation where he embraces light and warmth, symbolizing his moral and emotional awakening.

•

Critique of Materialism: Dickens critiques Scrooge’s prioritization of wealth over comfort or relationships, aligning his love of "cheapness" with a dehumanizing focus on money.