A Christmas Song
Jan Harrington Lyrics


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Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
Jack Frost nipping at your nose
Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.

Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
Help to make the season bright
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Will find it hard to sleep tonight.

They know that Santa's on his way
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
And every mother's child is gonna spy
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.

And so I'm offering this simple phrase
To kids from one to ninety-two




Although it's been said many times, many ways
Merry Christmas to you!

Overall Meaning

Jan Harrington's song "A Christmas Song" is a classic Christmas tune that paints a vivid picture of the holiday season through the use of imagery and nostalgia. In the opening verse, Harrington describes the cozy and warm atmosphere of a winter's night, with chestnuts roasting on an open fire and Jack Frost nipping at your nose. The second verse focuses on the communal aspect of the holiday season, with yuletide carols being sung by a choir and everyone dressed up in warm and festive attire. The chorus emphasizes the excitement and anticipation felt by children during Christmastime, with the mention of a turkey, mistletoe, and Santa's sleigh full of toys. Harrington ends the song with a simple message of goodwill, wishing all a merry Christmas.


Overall, the song captures the essence of what makes the holiday season special - warmth, community, and childlike wonder. The use of detailed imagery and a catchy melody make "A Christmas Song" a timeless classic that continues to be a beloved part of the holiday season.



Line by Line Meaning

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
The heartwarming feeling of warmth and coziness associated with the holiday season.


Jack Frost nipping at your nose
The chilly weather that accompanies Christmas, bringing with it reminders of the end of the year and changes that come with it.


Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
The joyous celebrations and traditions that come with Christmas, such as festive music and community singing.


And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
The spirit of fun and camaraderie that Christmas brings, with people dressed in silly outfits and costumes.


Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
The staples of Christmas traditions, such as food and decorations, which bring together people from all walks of life.


Help to make the season bright
How the simple things, like a festive meal, can brighten up the season and make it more enjoyable for everyone.


Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
The magic and wonder of Christmas for children, who are filled with excitement and hope for what the season will bring.


Will find it hard to sleep tonight.
The anticipation and excitement that make it hard for children to sleep on Christmas eve, as they await the arrival of Santa Claus.


They know that Santa's on his way
The excitement children have about the arrival of Santa Claus and the gifts he brings.


He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
The anticipation and expectations of children for the gifts they hope to receive from Santa Claus.


And every mother's child is gonna spy
The curiosity and excitement of children who will stay up late, waiting to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus and his reindeer.


To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
The pure joy and wonder of the Christmas season, which can even make the impossible seem possible and magical.


And so I'm offering this simple phrase
A simple expression of good will and cheer to everyone, regardless of age or background, to mark the Christmas season.


To kids from one to ninety-two
The inclusiveness of the Christmas season, which brings joy and celebration to people of all ages and backgrounds.


Although it's been said many times, many ways
The enduring nature of the message of Christmas, which never changes and continues to inspire hope and joy in people around the world.


Merry Christmas to you!
A heartfelt message of good will and joy to everyone, to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and all that it signifies.




Lyrics © OBO APRA/AMCOS

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