The Twelve Days of Christmas is a favorite of mine. As children we would sing it over and over trying to sing faster and faster until we became completely tongue tied, laughing with delight.
Many stories have been told of the song’s origins.
Some are rather gruesome in their account of this being a way Catholic children learned their cathecism, which if not known, might lead to death.
I rather like the version of this being a song sung between Christmas and Twelfth night as a game of profit or forfeit. If a line was missed a gift was forfeited.
If you know any better explanations for the song please share them with me!
In the meantime, enjoy this presentation of, what I think, is one of the dearest holiday songs!
2 Responses
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Michelle Says:
I was taught that it was a way for Catholic children to learn their cathecism when Catholic’s were being prosecuted.
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Melissa Says:
I’ve heard that too Michelle. Lots of lore and history attached to this tradition! Hope you’re having a very Merry Christmas!
