The Song
Alvin & The Chipmunks Lyrics

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Christmas, Christmas time is near
Time for toys and time for cheer
We've been good, but we can't last
Hurry Christmas, hurry fast

Want a plane that loops the loop
Me, I want a hula hoop
We can hardly stand the wait

Please Christmas, don't be late

Want a plane that loops the loop
I still want a hula hoop
We can hardly stand the wait
Please Christmas, don't be late

We can hardly stand the wait
Please Christmas, don't be late

Very good, boys
Lets sing it again!
Yeah, lets sing it again!
No, that's enough, lets not overdo it
What do you mean overdo it?
We want to sing it again!
Now wait a minute, boys
Why can't we sing it again?

Alvin, cut that out

Theodore, just a minute
Simon will you cut that out? Boys

Overall Meaning

The Chipmunk Song by Alvin & The Chipmunks is a beloved Christmas classic that captures the excitement and anticipation of the holiday season from the perspective of three young chipmunks. The opening lines convey the sense of excitement that children feel leading up to Christmas, with the promise of new toys and fun times with loved ones. However, the chipmunks feel a sense of urgency, as though they can hardly wait for Christmas to arrive.

As the song progresses, we hear the specific items on the chipmunks' Christmas wish list - a plane that loops the loop and a hula hoop. These are classic, retro toys that evoke a sense of nostalgia for listeners who grew up in the 1950s and 60s, when the song was first released. The repetition of the phrase "Please Christmas, don't be late" underscores the sense of impatience and longing that the chipmunks are experiencing.

The playful banter between the chipmunks and their human handler adds a touch of humor to the song, especially as Alvin insists on singing the song again and again, while Simon and Theodore try to rein him in. The song ends with the sense that Christmas is just around the corner, and the chipmunks can hardly contain their excitement.

Line by Line Meaning

Christmas, Christmas time is near
The holiday season is approaching

Time for toys and time for cheer
A time for happiness and to give/receive gifts

We've been good, but we can't last
We've behaved well, but we can't keep it up much longer

Hurry Christmas, hurry fast
Please come quickly, Christmas

Want a plane that loops the loop
I wish for a toy airplane that can perform stunts in the air

Me, I want a hula hoop
As for me, I desire a hula hoop toy

We can hardly stand the wait
We are very excited and can barely wait

Please Christmas, don't be late
Please arrive on time and do not be delayed

Very good, boys
Well done, boys

Lets sing it again!
Let's sing the song once more

Yeah, lets sing it again!
Yes, let's sing the song once more