In the second stave of A Christmas Carol, the Ghost of Christmas Past visits Scrooge. This ghost has a "bright clear jet of light" which protrudes from the "crown of its head." This light functions as a symbol of hope and of goodness in the world. It is created and prolonged by kind words and deeds and we see evidence of this in the first conversation between Scrooge and the ghost when Scrooge asks if the ghost will wear its extinguisher cap. The ghost responds by saying:
"What!" exclaimed the ghost, "would you so soon put out, with worldly hands, the light I give? Is it not enough that you are one of those whose passions made this cap?"
This idea is further reinforced when Scrooge revisits his former employer, Fezziwig. As Scrooge relives this experience, he is filled with good memories and joy which prompts the light on the ghost's head to burn "very clear." Similarly, at the end of the visit, Scrooge observes that the light burns "high and bright." This is because Scrooge has begun to reform his character and his happiness and joy has strengthened the light.
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