“I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” is a Christmas carol based on the poem “Christmas Bells” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem was written in 1863 during the American Civil War, and the song was later composed by John Baptiste Calkin in 1872. The carol has since become a classic and is often played during Christmas time.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The Origin of the Song
“I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” is a Christmas carol based on the poem “Christmas Bells” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem was written in 1863 during the American Civil War, and the song was later composed by John Baptiste Calkin in 1872. The carol has since become a classic and is often played during Christmas time.
The Lyrics of the Song
The lyrics of “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” are a reflection of Longfellow’s despair during the Civil War. The song begins with the cheerful sound of bells ringing on Christmas Day, but then takes a bleak turn as Longfellow contemplates the violence and suffering of the war. However, the song ends on a hopeful note as Longfellow remembers the message of peace and goodwill that Christmas represents.
Verse 1
I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet The words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
Verse 2
And 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!"
Verse 3
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."
The Message of the Song
The message of “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” is one of hope and peace. Despite the despair and suffering Longfellow experienced during the Civil War, he ultimately believed that good would triumph over evil and that peace would prevail. The song reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.
Four Questions and Answers Related to the Topic
1. Who wrote the poem that inspired the song “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day”?
The poem “Christmas Bells” was written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow during the American Civil War.
2. What is the message of the song?
The message of the song is one of hope and peace, even in times of despair and suffering.
3. Who composed the music for “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day”?
The music for the song was composed by John Baptiste Calkin in 1872.
4. Why is “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” considered a classic?
The song is considered a classic because of its timeless message of hope and peace, which resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds.
