Nat “King” Cole’s rendition of “I Saw Three Ships” is a joyous Christmas carol that captures the spirit of the holiday. With its roots in traditional English folklore, the song is steeped in mystery and merriment. It tells of three ships arriving on Christmas Day, a symbol of bringing gifts or the arrival of important guests. Some interpretations suggest the “three ships” represent the three wise men of the Nativity story, though they famously traveled by camel. The presence of the Virgin Mary and Christ in the lyrics points to a nativity scene, celebrating the birth of Jesus.
The magic of this song, through Cole’s velvet voice, lies not just in the lyrics but in the festive feeling it evokes. The songwriter aimed to capture the warmth and joy of Christmas, drawing listeners into a scene of communal celebration and reflection on the central figures of the Christian holiday.
Get ready to step into a scene draped in festive cheer, guided by the velvet tones of Nat “King” Cole. “I Saw Three Ships” is a time capsule that whisks us back to the essence of Christmas. It’s a musical journey that promises to sprinkle a little bit of holiday magic onto your day.
“I Saw Three Ships” Lyrics Meaning
“I saw three ships come sailing in, On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day,” these iconic lines open Nat “King” Cole’s “I Saw Three Ships,” and immediately, we’re set sailing on a sea of Christmas symbolism. The repetitive nature of these lines mimics the ebb and flow of the sea, possibly mirroring the anticipation and rhythm of the holiday season itself. The song’s cheerful tune belies a deeper meaning, intertwining with the rich tapestry of Christmas traditions.
“And what was in those ships all three?” The question isn’t just a literal query—it’s an invitation to wonder, to imagine. The ships, laden with mystery, evoke curiosity and a sense of impending joy, much like the feeling of approaching Christmas morning.
“The Virgin Mary and Christ were there,” draws a direct line to the holiday’s religious roots, reminding us that at the heart of the Christmas celebration is the birth of Jesus. It’s a revelation that grounds the fanciful imagery of the ships in the nativity’s sacred scene. This line is a cornerstone of the carol, bringing the miraculous into the mundane, symbolizing the arrival of hope and salvation.
Moving forward, “And all the Angels in Heaven shall sing,” amplifies the celestial celebration. It’s not just earth that’s rejoicing, but the heavens too. This line expands the scope of the song from a simple observation to a universal celebration involving all of creation in the jubilation of Christmas Day.
Finally, “Then let us all rejoice again,” is a call to action, a unifying plea for joy and celebration. It’s a reminder that Christmas is a time of communal happiness, shared stories, and songs, a time to renew our joyous exclamations year after year.
The repetition of “On Christmas Day in the morning,” underscores the idea of tradition, of something eagerly anticipated and celebrated collectively, during a time that symbolizes new beginnings and the joy of giving.
The Story Behind “I Saw Three Ships”
While Nat “King” Cole wasn’t the writer of the carol, his interpretation became a beloved classic, transporting listeners to a serene, snowy Christmas setting with his smooth voice and soulful delivery. The carol itself is centuries old, with its first printed version dating back to the 17th century. Its creation is shrouded in the kind of mystery that often accompanies traditional folk songs, passed down and transformed through generations.
Recording the song, Cole would have been aware of the power of Christmas music to unite and uplift. His rendition came at a time when the world was hungry for connection and joy, post-war.
Cole’s interpretation remains timeless because it reaches beyond the historical and religious undertones. It speaks to the human desire for wonder, for togetherness, and for peace—sentiments that are at the heart of the holiday season, no matter the era.