"Night Walks" by Charles Dickens is an essay that delves into the nocturnal experiences of a man battling insomnia, who finds solace and eventual exhaustion by walking through the city streets from dusk till dawn.
This compelling piece sees Dickens adopting the persona of an insomniac, offering readers a unique glimpse into the quiet hours of a bustling city. The protagonist's chosen remedy for his sleeplessness is to embark on extensive night walks, enduring until the break of day. These solitary journeys are not merely a means to an end but serve as an opportunity to observe the city's hidden life.
During these nocturnal peregrinations, the essay meticulously chronicles the various people he encounters and the diverse places he sees. From the shadows of alleys to the glow of gaslights, the narrative paints a vivid picture of urban existence under the cover of night. Ultimately, these exhaustive excursions achieve their purpose: the man returns home utterly spent, finally able to succumb to sleep.
Key Aspects of "Night Walks"
The essay's core elements can be summarized as follows:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Author's Persona | Charles Dickens assumes the identity of a man suffering from insomnia. |
| Primary Activity | The insomniac's chosen remedy is to walk extensively through city streets. |
| Duration of Walks | Walks typically last from nightfall until dawn. |
| Purpose & Outcome | The aim is to combat sleeplessness, leading to exhaustion and eventual sleep. |
| Essay's Content Focus | Details the various individuals and locations encountered during these night excursions. |
