The meaning of Celtic New Year by Van Morrison

Van Morrison's "Celtic New Year" is a song that celebrates the ancient Celtic traditions of Ireland and Scotland. The song is a reflection on the cultural heritage of these islands, with lyrics that explore the themes of community, family, and spiritual connection.

The song begins by evoking the atmosphere of a traditional Irish gathering, where friends and family come together to mark the start of a new year. Morrison sings about the warmth and camaraderie of this festive occasion, where people share stories, food, and drink. "There's music in the air," he croons, "and the laughter and the love are everywhere."

As the song progresses, Morrison delves deeper into the symbolism of the Celtic New Year. He sings about the "old ways" and the "ancient traditions", which have been passed down through generations of Irish and Scottish people. He also touches on the themes of renewal and transformation, as the old year gives way to the new.

One of the most striking aspects of "Celtic New Year" is its use of Celtic imagery and symbolism. Morrison weaves together "candles and candles burning bright", "the fire that burns so long and true", and "the ancient magic of the Celtic tree" to create a rich tapestry of sound and meaning.

Throughout the song, Morrison's distinctive voice and guitar playing bring the Celtic traditions to life. His vocals are infused with a sense of warmth and intimacy, as if he's sharing stories around the campfire. The instrumentation is equally evocative, with subtle use of percussion and keyboards that conjures up the misty hills and rugged coastlines of Ireland and Scotland.

In "Celtic New Year", Van Morrison has created a song that honors the cultural heritage of his native lands while also speaking to universal themes of community, family, and spiritual connection. It's a testament to the enduring power of Celtic music and culture, and a reminder of the importance of preserving our traditions for future generations.