'Christmas Comes but Once a Year' Summary

'Christmas Comes but Once a Year' follows the humorous misadventures of various characters during the Christmas season. The story centers on John Brown, a man of wealth and status, whose family is defined by its pretentious and superficial nature. Their Christmas celebrations are marked by extravagance and a disregard for genuine joy. Captain Bonaventure de Camp, a flamboyant figure with his own set of questionable companions, brings a chaotic energy to the holiday gatherings. At the heart of the story is Soavo Spohf, the organist of St. Stiff the Martyr, whose musical talent is overshadowed by his awkward social interactions and unrequited love. As the Christmas festivities unfold, the novel portrays the clash of personalities, societal expectations, and the pursuit of love and acceptance amidst the merriment of the season. The author skillfully uses satire to highlight the absurdity of Victorian social customs, particularly within the upper-class sphere, creating a humorous and insightful commentary on human behavior and societal values.