The lyrics of "Wassail" celebrate the apple tree, symbolizing abundance and fertility. The song references the biblical story of the fall of man, the nostalgia for Eden, and the hope for renewal and rebirth in the cycle of nature through the ritual of Wassail.

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Meaning of "Wassail" by Big Big Train


The lyrics of "Wassail" are rich with symbolism and imagery that explore themes of nature, spirituality, and human connection to the earth. The apple tree is portrayed as a sacred symbol of life, fertility, and regeneration. The references to Eden and the fall of man reflect on the loss of innocence and the longing for a perfect, unspoiled world. However, the ritual of Wassail, with its emphasis on singing, blessing, and celebrating the apple tree, offers a sense of hope and renewal. By drinking cider and making offerings to the roots, the song suggests a connection between humans and nature, a cycle of giving and receiving that sustains life. The imagery of the five-pointed star and the apple as the "apple of my eye" further emphasize the mystical and spiritual aspects of the lyrics. Overall, "Wassail" conveys a sense of reverence for nature, a desire for restoration, and a belief in the cyclical nature of life and death.