Early Life and Experiences:
* Poverty and hardship: Dickens's childhood was marked by poverty and hardship. His father was imprisoned for debt, and young Charles was forced to work in a blacking factory, a harsh and exploitative environment. This experience instilled in him a deep empathy for the poor and downtrodden, which later fueled his social commentary in his novels.
* Education and self-improvement: Despite limited formal education, Dickens was a voracious reader and self-taught. He absorbed literature and developed a love for storytelling. This self-reliance and thirst for knowledge fueled his ambition to become a writer.
* Exposure to theatre: Dickens's family frequented the theatre, exposing him to the power of performance and storytelling. This experience would later influence his writing style, which was characterized by vivid characters and dramatic scenes.
Early Career:
* Journalism and reporting: Dickens began his career as a journalist and reporter, which allowed him to observe the world around him and hone his writing skills. His work in this field also provided him with valuable material for his later novels.
* Success of "Sketches by Boz": Dickens's first major success came with the publication of "Sketches by Boz," a collection of short stories and sketches that showcased his talent for capturing the humor and pathos of London life.
Social Awareness and Commitment:
* Social reform: Dickens was deeply concerned with social justice and the plight of the poor. He used his writing platform to advocate for reforms in areas such as education, prisons, and the treatment of the poor. His novels, with their often bleak portrayals of Victorian society, served as a powerful form of social commentary.
Literary Influences:
* Shakespeare, Fielding, and Smollett: Dickens was influenced by the great English writers of the past, such as Shakespeare, Fielding, and Smollett. He borrowed from their techniques and styles, while adding his own unique voice and vision.
In short, Dickens's decision to become a writer was inspired by a confluence of personal experiences, early career opportunities, a strong social conscience, and literary influences. His childhood hardships, his love for storytelling, and his desire to expose the injustices of Victorian society all contributed to his becoming one of the greatest novelists of the 19th century.