Charles Dickens' novels were deeply influenced by his personal struggles, particularly during his difficult childhood marked by poverty and his father’s imprisonment. These experiences fueled his empathy for the underprivileged, prominently featured in his characters. Dickens' tumultuous early life fostered a sense of social justice that pervaded his works, emphasizing themes of injustice and the plight of the poor. His struggles with mental health and the pressure of writing for financial security also contributed to his unconventional narratives, driving home messages of resilience and social reform.