Here We Come A-Wassailing

Listed without an author "Here We Come A-Wassailing" is an English Tradition. A key part of the poem is "Wassailing." Wassailing is celebratory drinking associated with holidays. Originally a tradition associated with farm town, groups of people drank and shared strong apple cider while singing songs to neighbors. This poem modifies the tradition into a Christmas song, replacing the activity with, "Caroling."

The first two lines in the second stanza indicate tradition, "Love and joy come to you and to you your wassail too." The lines offer a peaceful blessing to wassailing neighbors.

The third stanza refers to community gathering and spreading of cheer by reminding listeners they are neighbors, not beggars. This is an odd line. Most people understand carolers are not beggars, yet the poem feels it necessary to state the fact. As a historic song passed down through centuries, there might have been conflict within towns.

Finally, the poem is reasserted as a Christian celebration, "God bless the master of the house
God bless the mistress too." In England, "master," and "mistress" identifies homeowners. The implication in the United States is complicated; however, the English interpretation is cited to understand the poem; therefore, carolers ask for God to bless the household.

Making reference to ancient traditions many cultures follow seasonal patterns when engaging in promoting favorable agricultural. This song exemplifies the importance of community beyond family. The words, "love and joy" are repeated throughout the song bringing forth images of neighbors and relatives going from house-to-house to share joy during winter.

Society is frequently obsessed with religious aspects of Christ's birth or exchanging gifts between family members. I enjoy the greater feeling of belonging, joy and goodwill towards all people to represent the Spirit of Christmas.

Quirky Books
Poems of Christmas by Myra Cohn Livingston