One Life
OJ&ST Lyrics

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Bring in a tree, a young Norwegian spruce
Bring hyacinths that rooted in the cold
Bring winter jasmine as its buds unfold
Bring the Christmas life into this house

Bring red and green and gold, bring things that shine
Bring candlesticks and music, food and wine
Bring in your memories of Christmas past

Bring in your tears forall that you have lost.

Bring in the shepherd boy, the ox and ass
Bring in the stillness of an icy night

Bring in the birth, of hope and love and light
Bring the Christmas life into this house

Overall Meaning

In "One Life," OJ&ST encapsulate the essence of Christmas by using vivid imagery and symbolic language. The opening lines evoke the act of bringing nature into the house, with a young Norwegian spruce representing growth and renewal. The mention of hyacinths rooted in the cold and winter jasmine symbolizes the endurance of life even in harsh conditions. This imagery emphasizes the theme of new beginnings and the hope associated with Christmas.

As the song progresses, the lyrics call for the inclusion of traditional Christmas elements – red, green, and gold – representing the colors that symbolize the season's joy and festivity. Candlesticks and music exemplify the warmth and harmony that surround Christmas celebrations, while food and wine signify the shared abundance and indulgence that often accompany the holiday.

Moving into a deeper emotional space, the song acknowledges the bittersweet nature of Christmas, as memories of past celebrations and the longing for lost loved ones are brought into focus. The inclusion of tears acknowledges the grief and sadness that can accompany the holiday season, reminding listeners that Christmas encompasses a range of emotions, not just joy and merriment.

In the final lines, the song shifts its focus to the nativity story, channeling the stillness of an icy night and drawing attention to the birth of hope, love, and light – all central themes of Christmas. Through this imagery, the song alludes to the deeper meaning of Christmas: the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, who embodies hope, love, and light.

Overall, "One Life" invites listeners to embrace the multifaceted nature of Christmas, encompassing both joy and sorrow, reminiscence and hope, and the natural and spiritual aspects of the holiday.

Line by Line Meaning

Bring in a tree, a young Norwegian spruce
Symbolize the freshness and vitality of life by bringing in a young, vibrant tree from Norway.

Bring hyacinths that rooted in the cold
Highlight the resilience and strength of life by bringing in flowers that have grown and thrived despite harsh conditions.

Bring winter jasmine as its buds unfold
Emphasize the beauty and potential of life by bringing in jasmine flowers that are blossoming and revealing their inner potential.

Bring the Christmas life into this house
Invite the spirit of Christmas and all its joys and celebrations into this home, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.

Bring red and green and gold, bring things that shine
Add elements of vibrancy, freshness, and glamour to the Christmas decorations, enriching the festive ambiance.

Bring candlesticks and music, food and wine
Provide the essential components of a joyful celebration, including candle-lit ambiance, melodious music, and indulgent food and drink.

Bring in your memories of Christmas past
Revisit and cherish the nostalgic moments and experiences of past Christmases, bringing them into the present celebration.

Bring in your tears for all that you have lost
Acknowledge the bittersweet emotions that may arise during the festive season, allowing the expression of grief and remembrance.

Bring in the shepherd boy, the ox and ass
Include characters from the nativity scene, symbolizing simplicity, humility, and the shared spirit of compassion and unity.

Bring in the stillness of an icy night
Introduce a sense of calmness, serenity, and tranquility that can be found in the peacefulness of a cold winter night.

Bring in the birth, of hope and love and light
Celebrate the arrival of new beginnings, encompassing the essence of hope, love, and enlightenment that Christmas represents.

Bring the Christmas life into this house
Ensure that the spirit of Christmas permeates every corner of this home, infusing it with joy, warmth, and a sense of togetherness.

Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Lucy Walker, Wendy Cope

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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