I'll Be Home for Christmas
Bing Crosby & Frank Sinatra Lyrics
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You can plan on me
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents on the tree
Christmas Eve'll find me
Where the love light gleams
I'll be home for Christmas
I'll be home for Christmas
You can plan on me
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents on the tree
Christmas Eve'll find me
Where the love light gleams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams
The song I’ll Be Home for Christmas is a classic Christmas tune that was first released in 1943. It was written by lyricist Kim Gannon and composer Walter Kent, and sung originally by Bing Crosby. The lyrics convey the sentiments of those far away from their loved ones during the festive season, and the desire to be together with them on this special occasion.
The opening lines of the song, “I'll be home for Christmas, you can plan on me,” immediately express the longing of a person who is far from home and promises to return for the holidays. The second line, “Please have snow and mistletoe and presents on the tree,” sets the mood for a traditional, picturesque Christmas setting. The singer’s desire for these familiar settings evokes a sense of nostalgia and familiarity.
The second verse of the song, “Christmas Eve will find me where the love light gleams,” highlights the emotional depth of the song. The phrase “love light gleams” suggests the warmth and coziness of being at home with loved ones, and the singer’s desire for this environment is amplified by the final refrain, “I'll be home for Christmas if only in my dreams.” This line highlights the sadness and desperation of a person who cannot be with their family during Christmas.
Line by Line Meaning
I'll be home for Christmas
I assure you that I will be back home in time to celebrate Christmas
You can plan on me
You can rely on me to be present for Christmas
Please have snow and mistletoe
I hope that the environment around the house is filled with snow and mistletoe, which are typical symbols of Christmas
And presents on the tree
I hope the Christmas tree is decorated with gifts for everyone to enjoy
Christmas Eve will find me
On the evening of Christmas Eve, I will be present with my loved ones
Where the love light gleams
I will be in a place where there is joy, warmth, and love among my family and friends
I'll be home for Christmas
I am looking forward to spending Christmas with my loved ones
If only in my dreams
Even if I am not able to return home physically, I will still feel the love and warmth of Christmas in my dreams and memories
Lyrics © GANNON & KENT MUSIC CO, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Buck Ram, Walter Kent, Kim Gannon
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind