"Christmas Card" by Jimmy Eat World tells the story of a troubled relationship from the perspective of the narrator. The song starts with the narrator addressing a little girl who seems to be staring at them, questioning whether the girl is looking at them or looking past them. The narrator is worried about their current situation, expressing that simple symptoms won't remove the emotional weight they carry or the redness in their eyes, possibly indicating distress or exhaustion. The lyrics then touch on the idea that rules they once made together don't last, implying that their relationship has become unstable or filled with broken promises. The narrator encourages themselves and possibly their partner to pick up the pieces and start anew on a Tuesday morning, symbolizing a fresh beginning. A significant detail in the song is a card postmarked on December 23. The narrator mentions the caption on the card, which reads, "How does he do it?" This suggests that someone is admiring or questioning another person's ability to handle difficult situations. The narrator then adds the phrase, "Ms. too bad he treats me like I'm dead," indicating that they feel neglected or mistreated in their relationship. They express frustration that nothing seems to work to make the situation easier, implying that attempts to improve or revive their relationship have been unsuccessful. The song ends with the narrator hoping that their partner will figure out what they truly want. This portrays a sense of longing for understanding and clarity within the relationship. Overall, "Christmas Card" reflects the struggles and challenges faced in a troubled relationship, as well as the desire for a fresh start and resolution.
