History Affairs

New Year, Old Books: A Tradition of Book Giving

The tradition of giving books as New Year’s gifts, both new and old, is a beautiful way to honor the past while embracing the future.

new year old book

The tradition of exchanging gifts at the beginning of the New Year has deep roots in British culture. While modern customs have evolved, the charm of giving an old book as a New Year’s gift remains a timeless gesture, blending tradition with the enduring value of literature.

The Tradition of New Year’s Gifts

For centuries, the start of the New Year has been a time for friends and family to exchange presents, symbolizing love, friendship, and well-wishes for the year ahead. This custom, cherished by many, serves as a heartfelt way to express hopes for a prosperous and joyful year. Historically, these gifts often included practical items such as food and clothing—things that catered to the body and provided immediate comfort and utility.

Thomas More, a renowned English statesman and writer, exemplified this tradition in his correspondence around 1510. In a letter to a young woman named Joyeuce Leigh, More articulated the significance of New Year gifts as symbols of affection and good fortune. He noted that while practical gifts were common, there was also a cherished tradition of giving literary gifts—poems or books—that carried deeper personal meanings and intellectual value.

Thomas More’s Literary Gift

More’s gesture to Leigh was more than a simple exchange of goods; it was an exchange of ideas and virtues. He presented her with his translation of the life of Pico della Mirandola, a work that not only wished her luck but also expressed his admiration and desire for her moral and spiritual growth. This act highlighted a refined aspect of New Year gifting—using literature to convey personal sentiments and aspirations for the recipient’s character development.

In an age where material gifts are prevalent, More’s approach reminds us of the profound impact that books can have as tokens of affection and respect. Literary gifts can inspire, educate, and strengthen the bonds between individuals, offering a lasting legacy beyond the fleeting nature of physical presents.

Reviving the Custom Today

While not everyone may feel equipped to compose a poem or write a book as a New Year’s gift, the idea of giving a book remains a meaningful and thoughtful tradition worth reviving. Books carry with them the wisdom of the past and the potential to enrich the future, making them ideal gifts for the New Year. Whether new or old, a book can offer companionship, knowledge, and inspiration throughout the coming year.

In today’s digital age, where information is readily accessible, the tactile experience of reading a physical book can provide a sense of nostalgia and connection to literary traditions. An old book, in particular, carries unique stories and histories within its pages, making it a special and personal gift that can be cherished for years to come.

The Book Accompanying 2025

As I embark on the year 2025, I am accompanied by a book that holds significant sentimental and historical value. Celebrating its 90th birthday this year, Raymond Wilson Chambers’ biography of Thomas More, published in 1935, stands as a testament to enduring literary craftsmanship. This biography was released during the 400th anniversary of More’s death and the year he was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, reflecting a period of renewed interest and reverence for his life and works.

Chambers’ biography captures More at a moment when his legacy was being re-evaluated and celebrated, providing insights that are both reflective of its time and enriched by decades of historical perspective. The book’s enduring presence in my collection serves as a bridge between past and present, offering lessons and inspirations that are as relevant today as they were nearly a century ago.

Raymond Wilson Chambers’ Biography of More

Raymond Wilson Chambers, a respected scholar of medieval literature, brought a unique perspective to his biography of Thomas More. His work is imbued with a deep appreciation for More’s era, highlighting the intricate balance More maintained between the medieval and the modern. Chambers’ scholarship, influenced by his studies of works like Beowulf and the Old English poem Widsith, allows him to portray More not just as a historical figure but as a man deeply rooted in the cultural and intellectual currents of his time.

Chambers’ biography is lively and imaginative, infused with a subtle sense of humor that makes it a delightful read. His observations on figures like Henry VIII reveal a critical yet nuanced understanding of historical personalities, adding depth to the narrative. For instance, Chambers humorously notes Henry VIII’s destructive impact on beauty and promise in European history, reflecting on how even destructive actions can leave lasting records admired by some.

The biography also touches on the intersection of personal and societal evolution, as seen in Chambers’ commentary on the marriage of two members of More’s household. He highlights this union as an early example of partnerships between medical professionals, underscoring the progressive educational values of the time and drawing parallels to his own contemporary society.

The Enduring Appeal of Old Books

Old books like Chambers’ biography of Thomas More offer more than just historical information; they provide a window into the thoughts and values of the past. Reading such works allows us to engage with the perspectives of earlier generations, understanding how they viewed their world and the figures who shaped it. This connection to history enriches our appreciation of both the subject matter and the literary art form itself.

Moreover, old books carry a tangible sense of history within their pages and bindings. They remind us of the physicality of reading and the personal experiences of those who have read and cherished them before us. In an era dominated by digital media, the act of holding and reading an old book can be a grounding and enriching experience, fostering a deeper connection to the written word.

Conclusion

The tradition of giving books as New Year’s gifts, both new and old, is a beautiful way to honor the past while embracing the future. Thomas More’s historical example of literary gifting underscores the enduring value of books as symbols of love, friendship, and intellectual growth. As we move into each new year, revisiting this custom with old books can bring a sense of continuity and appreciation for the literary heritage that continues to shape our lives.

Embracing old books as New Year gifts not only honors timeless traditions but also ensures that the wisdom and stories of the past continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come. Whether it’s a cherished biography, a classic novel, or a treasured family heirloom, an old book can be a meaningful and enduring gift that celebrates both the new beginnings and the rich history that accompanies us into the future.

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