Cry Christmas

Mother Mother's song 'Cry Christmas' paints a vivid and somewhat bleak picture of the holiday season, filled with familial dysfunction and personal despair. The lyrics delve into the darker side of Christmas, where the festive spirit is overshadowed by strained relationships, substance abuse, and the loss of innocence. The repeated refrain, 'Another try not to cry Christmas,' encapsulates the struggle to maintain composure and joy in the face of overwhelming sadness and chaos.

The song opens with a scene at the 'strangely degrading kids table,' setting the tone for a holiday gathering that is far from ideal. The mention of mistletoe and divorce papers juxtaposes the traditional symbols of love and togetherness with the harsh reality of broken relationships. The dry turkey and a grandfather high on Oxycontin further emphasize the dysfunction and disillusionment that permeate the celebration. The phrase 'what a gong show, ho ho ho' sarcastically mocks the chaotic and farcical nature of the event.

As the song progresses, it highlights the absurdity and discomfort of family interactions. Uncle John’s ramblings about Ganon and Armageddon, coupled with his coked-out young girlfriend, add to the sense of disarray. The loss of innocence and the end of 'sugar plum fun' signify a deeper, more poignant loss of childhood wonder and joy. The repeated attempts to hold back tears, only to have them 'monsoon,' reflect the overwhelming emotional burden that the holiday season can bring.

The final verse touches on broader themes of environmental decay and climate change, with the imagery of rain turning to brown snow and a winter drought. This shift from personal to global despair underscores the pervasive sense of hopelessness. The song concludes with a resigned acceptance of another 'try not to cry Christmas,' encapsulating the cyclical nature of holiday melancholy and the struggle to find joy amidst the chaos.