Twas the Night before Christmas - A Visit From Saint Nicholas (Illustrated) (ePub)

Clement Clarke Moore (1779-1863) was a distinguished American scholar and poet, widely known for penning one of the most enduring works of holiday literature, 'Twas the Night before Christmas - A Visit From Saint Nicholas,' first published anonymously in 1823. Born to a prominent New York family, Moore inherited a deep sense of civic responsibility and cultural engagement. His affluent background and robust education at Columbia College paved his way to becoming a respected academic, primarily in the areas of Biblical languages at the General Theological Seminary, which his family helped to found.

While Moore's literary output was relatively modest, his contribution to the Christmas tradition is incalculable. 'Twas the Night before Christmas' crystallized the image of Santa Claus and established many of the features of traditional Christmas lore, such as the names of the reindeer. Initially reticent to acknowledge authorship due to the whimsical nature of the piece diverging from his more serious scholarly work, Moore eventually embraced his creation that delighted countless families. His verse is noted for its rollicking rhythm and vivid imagery, which have played a pivotal role in shaping the American conception of Santa Claus and the joys of Christmas Eve. Moore's legacy endures in the Yuletide tradition, with his iconic poem still being a staple read in households and festive gatherings around the world.