Interpretation
The song lyrics 'Bleak Midwinter' by
Erasure describe the cold and desolate atmosphere of winter. The lyrics refer to the harsh conditions of nature and the cold that freezes everything.
The first part of the song describes the cold of winter and how the earth is like iron and the water like stone. The lyrics say: 'In the bleak midwinter, Frosty wind made moan, Earth stood hard as iron, Water like a stone.' Here, the extreme cold and rigidity of nature are portrayed.
In the second part of the song, the birth of Jesus Christ is addressed. The lyrics portray that heaven and earth are unable to contain or support God when he comes to reign. It says: 'Our God, heaven cannot hold him, Nor earth sustain, Heaven and earth shall flee away, When he comes to reign.' Here, the importance of Jesus' birth as the Son of God is emphasized.
The third part of the song describes the scene of the birth in a stable. It is said that angels and archangels gathered there and the air was filled with angels. But only mother Mary worshiped the beloved Jesus with a kiss. The lyrics say: 'But his mother only, In her maiden bliss, Worshipped the beloved, With a kiss.' Here, the devotion and love of Mary for her son are emphasized.
The end of the song poses the question of what one can give to Jesus, even when one is poor. The lyrics say: 'What can I give him, Poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb. If I were a wise man, I would do my part. Yet what I can I give him? Give my heart.' Here, it is emphasized that the most important thing one can give to Jesus is the heart. It is about giving oneself and one's love to Jesus, even when one has little materially.
Overall, the song lyrics 'Bleak Midwinter' by 'Erasure' describe the cold and harshness of winter and express the meaning of Jesus' birth as the Son of God. It is about devotion and love for Jesus, even in difficult times.