: By asking, "And what have we done?", Lennon encourages listeners to take inventory of their past year and personal contributions to the world.
: The recurring refrain "War is over, if you want it" emphasizes Lennon’s belief that peace is an active choice that can be achieved if enough people desire it. john_lennon_so_this_is_christmas
While it didn't chart immediately in the U.S. upon release, it reached number four in the UK in 1972. Following Lennon's death in 1980, it was re-released and peaked at number two in the UK. Today, it remains one of the most covered and beloved holiday songs, frequently appearing in polls as a seasonal favorite . : By asking, "And what have we done
: The recording begins with whispered Christmas greetings from John and Yoko to their children: " Happy Christmas, Kyoko " (Yoko's daughter) and " Happy Christmas, Julian " (John's son). Key Themes & Meaning upon release, it reached number four in the UK in 1972
The lyrics serve as both a call to action and a moment of personal reflection:
: Lennon wrote and demoed the song on an acoustic guitar in his New York hotel room in October 1971. It was produced by Phil Spector at Record Plant Studios and features backing vocals from the Harlem Community Choir .