John Cale's song "Child's Christmas In Wales" is based on the poem of the same name by Dylan Thomas. The lyrics describe a nostalgic and whimsical journey through various holiday memories and images. The opening lines, "With mistletoe and candle green, To Halloween we go," set the tone for a journey back in time to childhood memories. The mention of Halloween is likely to highlight the blend of holiday traditions in the narrator's reminiscence. "Ten murdered oranges bled on board ship" is a metaphorical phrase representing the anticipation and excitement surrounding the festive season. It reflects the joyful chaos and vibrancy of preparing for Christmas. The line "Lends comedy to shame" suggests that even in times of joy, there may be an underlying sense of guilt or regret. The juxtaposition of comedy and shame adds depth to the emotions experienced during the holiday season. "The cattle graze bold uprightly, Seducing down the door" paints a picture of the narrator observing peaceful scenes of nature while simultaneously being drawn towards festive gatherings and celebrations. The mention of swords and meeting places adds an element of adventure and camaraderie. "We have no place to go" could be interpreted as a bittersweet realization that childhood innocence and wonder have been lost. It acknowledges the nostalgia and longing for a simpler time when the holiday season was filled with unbounded joy and excitement. The following lines describe the hustle and bustle of Christmas crowds, but they also imply that it may be too late to fully capture or recreate those vibrant memories. The use of place names like Sebastopol and Adrianapolis adds a sense of grandeur and global connection, perhaps symbolizing the universal experience of Christmas. "Take down the flags of ownership, The walls are falling down" suggests a call for unity and the breaking down of barriers. It could be interpreted as an invitation to put aside differences and come together to celebrate the shared experience of the holiday season. The final lines, "A belt to hold, Columbus too, perimeters of nails, Perceived the Mamma's golden touch, Good neighbors were we all," evoke a sense of community and togetherness. It highlights the importance of treasuring the memories and connections forged during Christmas time. Overall, "Child's Christmas In Wales" captures the essence of nostalgia, longing, and the complex emotions associated with the holiday season. It reminisces on childhood experiences while alluding to the universal aspects of Christmas that bring people together.
