What about Marley must be distinctly understood?

Marley must be distinctly understood as a pivotal character in Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," representing the consequences of a life lived without compassion and generosity. His ghostly visit serves as a warning to Ebenezer Scrooge, illustrating the heavy burden of regret and the potential for redemption. Marley embodies the theme of transformation, demonstrating that it is never too late to change one’s ways and embrace the spirit of kindness and charity. His chains symbolize the weight of his past actions, urging Scrooge to reconsider his own path before it's too late.