Linus drops the mic

Photo by Paolo Chiabrando

When I was growing up, A Charlie Brown Christmas was playing on TV at some point each December.

This special, which aired on network TV, was clearly from another generation. In it, the following scene unfolds between Charlie Brown, the sort of sad main character, and Linus, a baby-ish young boy who always has a security blanket with him:

“I guess you were right, Linus. I shouldn't have picked this little tree," said Charlie Brown. "Everything I do turns into a disaster. I guess I don't really know what Christmas is all about. Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?"

"Sure, Charlie Brown, I can tell you what Christmas is all about," said Linus.

[Linus walks on stage.]

"Lights, please.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

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, good will toward men.'

[Linus picks up his blanket and shuffles off-stage.]

"That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown."

Linus is quoting the King James Version of the Bible for part of Jesus' birth narrative. The backdrop is Charlie Brown's frustration with the heightened expectations and consumerism of the Christmas season. In a world of glittery Christmas trees, Charlie Brown disappoints everyone by choosing a sad "tree" that looks more kike a twig in a stand.

It's become so cliché to say that Jesus is the reason for the season in reaction to all the consumption and distraction. Linus' explanation, which he has memorized by the way, is so much more interesting.

That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown!

Linus explains the true meaning of Christmas in A Charlie Brown Christmas