In a song that has become a staple of holiday playlists, a name keeps popping up that many listeners may not recognize – Parson Brown. The phrase appears in the familiar refrain of “Winter Wonderland,” a tune that has been performed by Bing Crosby, youth choirs, and countless other artists over the years. Yet, despite its seasonal popularity, the song is not a Christmas hymn. Instead, it tells a story of winter romance that has led to confusion about its true meaning.
The Song and Its Origins
“Winter Wonderland” was written by Felix Bernard and Richard Bernhard Smith, two songwriters who crafted the melody and lyrics that would become an enduring winter classic. The first recording of the song was performed by Richard Himber, an early 20th-century singer who introduced the piece to a wider audience. Though the song is frequently found on Christmas music collections, its original intent was not to celebrate the holiday.
The Winter Romance
According to Ronald D. Lankford, who discusses the song in his 2013 book, “Sleigh Rides, Jingle Bells, and Silent Nights: A Cultural History of American Christmas Songs,” the narrative of “Winter Wonderland” centers on romance. Lankford writes: “Romance is nigh as lovers explore an open landscape filled with snow, new birds, and sleigh bells,” illustrating how the song captures a couple’s playful adventure in a snowy setting.
The Couple’s Intentions
The lyrics suggest that the couple in the song is not married but is looking toward the future. A key line in the chorus states: “He’ll say: Are you married? We’ll say: No man, but you can do the job when you’re in town.” This exchange hints at a desire for marriage while also indicating that the bride and groom are not yet wed.
Parson Brown Explained
The name Parson Brown appears in the same refrain, prompting listeners to wonder who this character is. In the context of the song, Parson Brown is not a snowman officiating a wedding, as some might imagine. Rather, the word “parson” is a term for a clergyman, especially a Protestant pastor, and sometimes refers to one who travels between towns. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary notes that the usage of “parson” has declined since the 1820s and is largely unused since 1980.
Why the Song Is Not Christmas
While “Winter Wonderland” is often associated with the holiday season, its content focuses on a winter setting rather than Christmas traditions. The only direct reference to a holiday element is the mention of ringing sleigh bells in the opening lines. No other Christmas symbols or themes appear in the lyrics, reinforcing the idea that the song celebrates winter itself.
The Cultural Significance of Parson Brown
Because the couple in the song is likely seeking marriage, it would make sense for them to look for a parson, or pastor, to perform the ceremony. The mention of Parson Brown in the refrain therefore highlights the couple’s intention to formalize their relationship. The name adds a whimsical touch to the narrative, blending the idea of a traditional wedding officiant with the playful tone of the song.
Key Takeaways
- “Winter Wonderland” is a winter romance song written by Felix Bernard and Richard Bernhard Smith.
- The song’s lyrics feature a couple who are not married but wish to marry, and they refer to a parson.
- The term “parson” denotes a Protestant pastor, a word that has fallen out of common usage since the 1980s.
Closing
The next time you hear “Winter Wonderland” on the radio or in a holiday playlist, you can appreciate the subtle story behind the lyrics. The song invites listeners into a snowy adventure that culminates in a hopeful glance toward marriage, with Parson Brown serving as the symbolic officiant. Though the tune is often grouped with Christmas music, its true focus remains on winter romance rather than holiday celebration.
