The Feast of St. Friend

"The Feast of St. Friend" by Arnold Bennett is a reflective essay on the traditions of Christmas, capturing the essence of goodwill and the impact of modernity on this cherished holiday. Written in the early 20th century, this work delves into the reasons behind the changes in how Christmas is celebrated, emphasizing its festival nature and the importance of community and personal relationships during this season. It serves as a philosophical exploration of the meaning of Christmas within the context of societal expectations, human connections, and the inherent need for celebration. The book unfolds in a series of thoughtful chapters, starting with the contrast between past and current Christmas experiences and exploring themes of faith, joy, and the significance of feasting. Bennett argues that while the spirit of Christmas may feel diminished in modern times, the underlying essence remains vital. He advocates for the revitalization of Christmas through the cultivation of goodwill and greater empathy towards others, encouraging readers not just to partake in the festivities but to engage with the spirit behind them. The narrative culminates in the idea that Christmas should be regarded as the "Feast of St. Friend," highlighting the importance of personal connections and the joy of togetherness in fostering a genuine understanding of one another, thus celebrating the true meaning of the holiday. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Enoch Arnold Bennett was an English author, best known as a novelist, who wrote prolifically. Between the 1890s and the 1930s he completed 34 novels, seven volumes of short stories, 13 plays, and a daily journal totalling more than a million words. He wrote articles and stories for more than 100 newspapers and periodicals, worked in and briefly ran the Ministry of Information during the First World War, and wrote for the cinema in the 1920s. Sales of his books were substantial, and he was the most financially successful British author of his day.