Christmas Hymn by Eugene Field

The poem consists of four stanzas, each containing ten lines. Each stanza begins with a command directed at a distinct voice—bells, angels, humanity, and the speaker's own heart—and concludes with the same refrain about Christ saving "them and me." This repeating refrain is what gives it the feel of a true hymn.

"Bedight" is an old English term that means dressed or adorned. Field uses it to depict the infant Jesus in royal robes, creating a striking contrast with the modest manger setting.

It pertains to the Christian belief in original sin and redemption. The term "Seed of Adam" signifies all of humanity, tracing back to Adam. "Ransomed" refers to being bought back or set free — suggesting that Christ's arrival settles the debt incurred by Adam's fall in the Garden of Eden.

Field draws on the Old Testament prophecies, where the arrival of a Messiah represented a long-awaited promise for the people of Israel. By making this reference, he links the Christmas story to a much older story of hope and anticipation.

The first three stanzas invite outside influences—like bells, angels, and other people—to join in the celebration. In contrast, the fourth stanza focuses on the speaker, making the poem more personal. This shift is significant as it introduces a moral aspect: simply singing isn't sufficient; the speaker vows to engage in charitable actions. It's the poem's most genuine and thoughtful moment.

This refers to Jesus' crucifixion. "The tree" is a common term for the cross. By mentioning it in a Christmas poem, Field highlights that the birth and death are intertwined in the same narrative.

It sounds like what it is. The repeating refrain, the rising layers of voices, and the direct appeal to the community all mimic the style of a Christian hymn. Field doesn’t assign it a particular melody, but the rhythm is consistent enough that it could be easily set to music.

Field directly speaks to everyone — the rich and the poor, the young and the old, the free and the enslaved. The poem emphasizes that the Christmas message is meant for all people, without exception. However, it was crafted primarily for a predominantly Christian American audience in the 19th century.