The Twelve Days of Christmas
Pevan & Sarah Lyrics
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Their old familiar carols play
And wild and sweet, the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men
I thought how as the day had come
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
In despair, I bowed my head
There is no peace on earth, I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men
Then pealed the bells, more loud and deep
God is not dead, nor doth he sleep
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men
In the opening verse of "The Twelve Days of Christmas," the singer describes hearing the familiar sound of Christmas bells ringing in the air. These bells are playing traditional carols that evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. The lyrics emphasize the repetition of the words "peace on earth, good will to men," suggesting a hopeful and positive message that is being spread through the music of the bells.
As the singer reflects on the significance of Christmas Day, they imagine the bells of churches all over Christendom ringing out in unison, creating a powerful and continuous symphony of peace and goodwill. This imagery highlights the unity and shared celebration that Christmas brings to people of faith around the world. The repetition of the message of peace and goodwill reinforces the idea that these values are central to the Christmas spirit.
However, amidst the joy and celebration of Christmas, the singer experiences a moment of doubt and despair. They express a realization that in the face of hatred and conflict in the world, the ideal of peace on earth seems unattainable. The lyrics poignantly convey the struggle between the hopeful message of Christmas and the harsh realities of a world plagued by discord and violence.
In a climactic turn of events, the bells ring out with renewed strength and conviction, signaling a shift in perspective. The lyrics suggest that despite the presence of hate and the challenges of the world, there is a deeper spiritual truth - that God is present and vigilant. The final verses offer a message of hope and reassurance, proclaiming that ultimately, goodness will triumph over evil and that peace and goodwill will prevail. Through this powerful conclusion, the song conveys a profound message of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Integrity Music, Songtrust Ave
Written by: Sarah McLachlan, Pierre Marchand, Traditional
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