These lyrics are from the song "I Believe in Father Christmas" by Greg Lake. The song reflects on the idea of Christmas and the expectations that come with it, both the joyful and the disillusioning aspects. Let's comment on the lyrics line by line:
"They said there'll be snow at Christmas"
This line sets up the traditional image of a white, snowy Christmas, which is often associated with a peaceful and festive holiday season.
"They said there'll be peace on Earth"
Here, the lyrics mention the hope for peace during the Christmas season, highlighting the idealistic and optimistic expectations people have for this time of year.
"But instead it just kept on raining"
This line introduces a sense of disappointment and contrast to the initial expectations. Instead of snow and peace, it's raining, symbolizing a letdown.
"A veil of tears for the Virgin birth"
This line alludes to the sorrow and hardship associated with the story of the Virgin Mary giving birth to Jesus, emphasizing the idea that even in the midst of joy, there can be sorrow.
"I remember one Christmas morning"
The lyrics shift to a personal memory of a specific Christmas morning, hinting at a more nostalgic and reflective tone.
"A winter's light and a distant choir"
This line evokes a sense of the atmosphere and ambiance of a traditional Christmas scene with lights and choir music in the background.
"And the peal of a bell and that Christmas tree's smell"
These details help paint a vivid picture of the sensory experience of Christmas morning, from the sound of bells to the scent of a decorated tree.
"And their eyes full of tinsel and fire"
This line captures the excitement and wonder in the eyes of children on Christmas morning, as they gaze at the tinsel and lights on the tree.
"They sold me a dream of Christmas"
This line suggests that the commercial and societal expectations of Christmas can sometimes feel like a "dream" that has been marketed and sold to people.
"They sold me a Silent Night"
It further emphasizes the idea that the simplicity and serenity of the "Silent Night" hymn has been commercialized and packaged.
"They told me a fairy story"
Here, the lyrics liken the Christmas story to a fairy tale, implying that it may not fully align with reality.
"'Till I believed in the Israelite"
This line suggests that the singer once believed in the religious aspect of Christmas, specifically in the biblical figure of the Israelite (referring to Jesus).
"And I believed in Father Christmas"
This is a reference to the belief in Santa Claus, a symbol of gift-giving and joy during Christmas.
"I looked to the sky with excited eyes"
It describes the anticipation and wonder that children have as they look to the sky on Christmas Eve, hoping to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus.
"'Till I woke with a yawn in the first light of dawn"
This line symbolizes the transition from childhood innocence and belief in Santa Claus to the realization that it's just a story as one grows older.
"And I saw him and through his disguise"
It suggests that the singer saw through the illusion of Santa Claus as they matured.
"I wish you a hopeful Christmas"
The lyrics end with a wish for a hopeful Christmas, highlighting the importance of hope and positivity during the holiday season.
"I wish you a brave New Year"
This line extends the well-wishing to the New Year, encouraging courage and resilience in the face of challenges.
"All anguish pain and sadness"
It acknowledges that life can be filled with suffering and sorrow.
"Leave your heart and let your road be clear"
Despite the challenges, the lyrics encourage leaving behind negativity and obstacles to pave the way for a better future.
"Hallelujah Noel be it Heaven or Hell"
This line suggests that Christmas is a time to celebrate, regardless of the circumstances or the challenges one may face.
"The Christmas we get we deserve"
The song concludes by implying that the type of Christmas we experience is a reflection of our own beliefs and actions.
Overall, these lyrics convey a mix of nostalgia, disillusionment, and the enduring hope associated with the holiday season. They reflect on the changing perceptions of Christmas as one grows older and the importance of maintaining hope and positivity in the face of life's challenges.
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