Writing has long been a crucial part of the holidays. Whether it’s reading passages from the Bible for Christmas, reciting Hebrew prayers for Hannukah, performing poetry for Kwanzaa, sending letters to Santa Claus, or any of a myriad of other holiday traditions, the written word is an integral part of celebrating this time of year for millions of people around the world. As a writer, I’m always intrigued by the many ways writing impacts our lives, and this is especially apparent during popular winter festivities.
Below are some forms of writing and reading that many will enjoy during the coming weeks. Regardless of how you celebrate this season, I hope you can find time for the words that move you and make your holidays merry.
Stories
Storytelling is at the centre of the holiday season. Deeply important religious stories like the birth of Jesus or the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem have led to this time having sacred importance to countless families. More secular stories such as Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol and ETA Hoffmann’s The Nutcracker and the Mouse King continue to spark the imagination of people of all ages. The popular poem A Visit from St. Nicholas was a common tradition in my family’s home when I was a child, with my father reading it each year, increasing my excitement for when Santa and his reindeer would arrive and deliver our presents. Whether written on the page or adapted for the stage or screen, stories can capture the magic of the holiday season and communicate the feelings that make this such a celebrated part of the calendar.
Songs
From Jingle Bells to Silent Night, songs play an important role for many people during this time. Everyone who has gone Christmas carolling or has belted out Auld Lang Syne to usher in the new year can attest to the significance of songs in appreciating the holidays. Notable songwriters like Irving Berlin and Johnny Marks have created songs made popular by Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, Mariah Carey, and countless other musical artists. Whether you fancy classical, jazz, pop, or numerous other genres, a wide range of songs have been written to catch your ear and get you in the holiday spirit.
Cards
Greeting cards are another popular form of writing during this time of year. Sent to wish family and friends “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Hanukkah,” “Heri za Kwanzaa,” or “Season’s Greetings,” these cards merge cheerful images with heartfelt words to let recipients near and far know you are thinking of them. They might accompany presents or be mailed as a friendly gesture to important people in your life. While many buy them from stores, it is also common to make them yourself or write some extra words to give your card a personal touch.
Fundraising and Grant Writing
The final month of the year is a popular time to donate. The holiday season seems to bring out people’s generosity, with 31% of donations occurring during December. Non-profits rely on this revenue to support vital services, and they work harder than ever to write letters and emails asking people to give. Additionally, there are often many grants at the end of the old year and the beginning of the new one. Writing grant applications is a great way to help your non-profit or business thrive and achieve its New Year’s resolutions.
Conclusion
Regardless of how you choose to enjoy the end of 2023 and the beginning of 2024, writing will almost certainly play a meaningful role for you during these cold winter months. It can bring cheer through stories and songs, unite families and friends across long distances through letters and greeting cards, and support charities and businesses through fundraising. Many organizations cannot devote their time and staff to completing grant applications or marketing materials; they rely on more experienced writers to do it for them. Consider giving yourself the gift of professional writing services this holiday season, and contact iPlume Writing today!
