'It was a strange figure-like a child: yet not so like a child as like an old man.'
-Childlike appearance connotes its innocence and good intentions, which Scrooge is keen to 'Extinguish' by covering its light with a cap, suggesting his unwillingness to change.
-Juxtaposition of child and old man highlights the conflict of Scrooge when confronted with his past.
-Alternatively is used to demonstrate that his childhood led to his old man persona through neglect.
