Dickens began to write what would become A Christmas Carol in October 1843. He was determined to get the book out in time for Christmas that year, giving him a very short window to work in. Truth is, Dickens had a desperate need for money.
At the time, Dickens’ writing career was in a slump, he was also in debt and had a family to support. Not only was he married with a fifth child on the way, his father was also in a financial drain.