The thing I like about the celebrations at this time of year is that they are such a jumble of different origins and meanings and implications.  But somehow, a wide variety of people are able to get some meaning out of these times of celebration.  Here in the northern hemisphere, the rituals stretch back 4,000 years, give or take, with roots in various parts of the world - wherever humas were paying attention to the weather around them and the path of the sun and the earth.  Despite attempts by some to restrict or prohibit or outright condemn bits that they don't like, the modern celebrations of this time still bear the imprint of many cultures and worldviews.  Including yours, whatever it is.  Welcome to the world of humans and the ways that they make meaning out of their lives and experiences!  May it always be so.

So on this episode of Routes & Branches & Beyond (# 391), I have the first of a series called "The Season of Deep Winter Celebrations."  There are songs and tunes about wrens, colcannon, a million stars, solstice bells, joyous chimes, chimneys, rum, logging camps, and Christmas at the Ale House.  All from musicians such as Dordán, The Revels, The Irish Rovers, St. Agnes Fountain, A Winter Union, The Albion Christmas Band, Carollers from the Fountain in Ingbirchworth, Christine Tassan et les imposteurs, The Barra MacNeils, The Ennis Sisters, Kim Robertson & Virginia Kron, the Good Lovelies, Rum Ragged, and Tamarack.  Put down that holly and shortbread and join me.

Routes & Branches & Beyond show # 391 2025 12 11

Ivan Emke