The idea that literature has inspirational qualities and is produced by Great Writers has repeatedly come under attack as literary studies seeks to redefine itself. Yet the ability to think of the writer as genius, seer, moral guide, all the romantic possibilities, in short, is arguably as important as it has always been. Engaging with what G.K. Chesterton wrote about Dickens' fiction more than a century ago can lead to a better understanding of how subtle, provocative and topical the issues Chesterton raises are. His commentary on Dickens' Christmas stories shows how an author-centred approach can bring his central concerns into sharper focus.