'Twas the night before Jesus, and all through the house, Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads; And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below; When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer!
With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!
"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
As leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack.
His eyes—how they twinkled! his dimples, how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard on his chin was as white as the snow;
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke, it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round belly That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself; A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk, And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!"
This poem offers a whimsical and traditional take on Christmas Eve, focusing on the anticipation and joy associated with the holiday. While not directly about the birth of Jesus, it sets the scene for the celebration and the spirit of giving that underlies the Christmas season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the origin of the poem " 'Twas the Night Before Christmas"?
The poem, originally titled "A Visit from St. Nicholas," was anonymously published in the Troy Sentinel in 1823. It's widely attributed to Clement Clarke Moore, though its authorship has been debated.
What makes the poem so popular?
Its enduring popularity stems from its charming portrayal of Santa Claus, the vivid imagery, and the playful rhythm and rhyme. It perfectly captures the magic and wonder of Christmas Eve for children and adults alike.
Are there any alternative versions of the poem?
There are numerous variations and adaptations of the poem, some reflecting different cultural perspectives or simply minor word changes over the years.
What is the significance of the poem in relation to Christmas?
The poem solidified many of the modern-day depictions of Santa Claus, heavily influencing the imagery and traditions associated with Christmas, especially in the Western world. It contributes to the festive atmosphere and the spirit of gift-giving that surrounds the holiday.
How does the poem relate to the birth of Jesus?
While the poem focuses on Santa Claus, it indirectly relates to the birth of Jesus by setting the scene for the celebratory Christmas Eve, which is the eve of the celebration of the birth of Jesus. The spirit of generosity and joy in the poem aligns with the themes of giving and goodwill often associated with Christmas and the message of the birth of Jesus.
