Well, Christmas is right around the corner and what better way to kick off the month of December than with a commentary on A Charlie Brown Christmas? Okay, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is another possibility, but I didn't choose that classic cartoon.
Forty years ago Charlie Brown wanted to find the true meaning of Christmas and in the process, Charles M. Schulz created an animated holiday classic that has remained an integral part of Americana ever since. The Peanuts gang prove their timelessness as they continue to connect to generations of Americans.
The cartoon's plot is centered on Charlie Brown's determination not to let commercialism ruin his Christmas. Snoopy, on the other hand, is not too concerned about such things as he enters a contest in an effort to win money for best decorated house... er, dog house. While the spirit of Christmas escapes everyone around him - including man's best friend Snoopy (who reminds me of Otto Von Bismarck with his ability to shift alliances in an ever-changing geopolitical system) - Charlie Brown knows there's something more to Christmas but can't quite put his finger on it. That is, until he turns to Linus who chimes in with the Oscar performance of a lifetime.
"And suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth peace, and goodwill toward men,'" Linus says. "And that's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."
I know. We still choke up whenever we watch this scene. The power and timelessness of the speech lies in the innocence of its messenger - a blue-blanket-carrying little boy who still sucks his thumb. Not to mention that it reminds us all of who Jesus Christ was. It's a beautiful, moving and meaningful speech that little Linus gave.
What is remarkable as I watched the cartoon again this year is that this episode still gets aired annually. With Christianity under sharp scrutiny in postmodernity, I'm surprised Linus' speech has not drawn fire from politically correct circles. Perhaps it speaks volumes of its ability to resonate even among the most cynical, or that they have just not gotten around to censoring it.
If it ever comes to this, it would truly be a sad day for not only freedom and art in pop culture, but for religion as an important force in our lives as well.
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Article comments
1 - Iloz Zoc
I miss Woodstock :(
2 - Mary K. Williams
A sweet review - this show truly represents the heart of the holiday. PC folk beware, don't mess with Peanuts!
Your "Were are They Now?" was a little depressing, but funny.
Maybe someone should write an alternative (read, happier - I'm a sucker for Happy Endings) ending, like Wayne's World : )
3 - alessandro nicolo
Thanks Mary. I went for the contrast ;<)
It's a natural reflex to go that route. But now that you mention it it could be cool to do it your way. I once saw the gang from Riverdale in a porno. I was 13. My neighbour, who was 16, thought he was doing me a favour. It changed my life. Ok, not really. I'm sinking. How does one end such a comment?
4 - alessandro nicolo
IZ, Woodstock lives on in our minds.
5 - Mary K. Williams
I'm sinking. How does one end such a comment?
Remember George Costanza's advice - always leave on a High Note. : )
Naw, you did fine Allesandro.
I'm workign on my Holiday favorites post right now.
6 - alessandro nicolo
Costanza: the best Seinfeld character.
7 - Mary K. Williams
Word!
btw, Merry Festivus!
8 - Nancy
Just a note: Linus left her at the altar. The spelling you used is the definition of change.
9 - alessandro nicolo
Yes. I shall arrange to edit. Thank you.
10 - Jenny
Poor Schroder. I guess he learned his lesson on to switch to a real piano. And poor Peppermint Patty. I guess she learned her lesson on switching her footwear during the season. Also, I bet she can't fight over Marcie or her boyfriend, Schroder. And why do we want our little Snoopy to move to an island near Africa? That's one big AAUGH to me.