Meaning of "Christmas Island" by Bob Dylan

The lyrics of "Christmas Island" by Bob Dylan evoke a sense of escapism and fantasy about celebrating Christmas in a tropical setting far away from traditional snowy landscapes. The song portrays Christmas on an island as a dream-like experience, where stockings are hung on coconut trees instead of fireplaces, and Santa arrives by canoe instead of sleigh. This imagery creates a contrast between the familiar Western Christmas traditions and the exotic, carefree atmosphere of a tropical island. The lyrics suggest that spending Christmas on Christmas Island would be a magical and unforgettable experience, where the ordinary rules of reality are suspended, and each day is filled with the wonder and joy of the holiday season. Overall, the song conveys a sense of longing for a holiday escape to a place where Christmas dreams can come true in unexpected and delightful ways.