It also explains why socks are actually a quite nice gift, as you get them before you'll need them, which historically is the best time, considering the alterna

It also explains why socks are actually a quite nice gift, as you get them before you'll need them, which historically is the best time, considering the alternative may be to receive them not at all. In that view, a lump of coal doesn't seem half bad either! I think the focus there is on the miserly portion, not the utility of the gift (or lack thereof). Reading tradition(s) in this way really helps put fictional accounts such as A Christmas Carol and traditional celebrations themselves in a more charitable light. It's a bit late, but I wish you season's greetings and a happy new year, whenever and however you celebrate, if and when you do.