Under the Tree by Ed Sheeran has enriched the holiday season. This marks his second festive offering, following his collaboration with Elton John on “Merry Christmas” in 2021. The new track encapsulates the emotional essence of the holiday season, seamlessly merging Sheeran‘s distinctive musical style with the joyous spirit of Christmas. Notably, “Under The Tree” is linked to the upcoming Netflix animated Christmas film “That Christmas,” scheduled for release on December 4, 2024.
The song, along with its music video, presents a heartfelt narrative centered on themes of loss and yearning, which resonate profoundly during this time of year. The lyrics reveal Sheeran’s strong emotional investment in the piece, crafted specifically for the film. This article will delve into the lyrics, the music video, and the emotional resonance of “Under The Tree,” as well as its relationship to the movie and the personal journey Ed Sheeran undertook while composing it.
The Emotional Power of Under The Tree by Ed Sheeran
Under The Tree by Ed Sheeran captures the universal feeling of yearning, especially during the holiday season when individuals may feel the absence of cherished ones. In his lyrics, Sheeran delves into the anguish of being apart from someone who once held immense significance.
The primary theme of the song centers on unfulfilled desires, the void created by loss, and the sorrow of celebrating Christmas without the individual who once brought happiness. The poignant line, “There is nothing under the tree that I wished for,” profoundly reflects the narrator’s emotional turmoil. No physical gift can substitute for the comfort of a loved one’s presence, making this holiday song deeply relatable for numerous listeners.
This sense of sorrow is accentuated by the song’s simple and soothing melody that accompanies the lyrics. The melancholic tone resonates with the grievance often felt during the holiday season, as many people confront feelings of isolation, whether stemming from personal loss or separation from family and friends. Under The Tree serves as a poignant reminder that Christmas may not be a joyful occasion for everyone.
Ed Sheeran’s Collaboration with That Christmas
The upcoming song is not merely another holiday release; it serves as a vital component of the animated film That Christmas, which will be available for streaming on Netflix starting December 4, 2024. Directed by Richard Curtis, the film boasts an impressive cast, including Brian Cox. Its unique animation style and poignant narrative are set to provide a novel perspective on classic holiday cinema.
The narrative delves into the emotional aspects of the Christmas season, centering on a character’s journey of experiencing the holidays in the absence of loved ones. This theme struck a chord with Ed Sheeran, particularly following his transition into fatherhood. In a recent interview, Sheeran shared that his motivation for composing Under The Tree stemmed from his realization of the scarcity of animated Christmas films that resonate with children during the festive period.
His involvement in the story became even more significant as he worked alongside his brother on the song, a rare collaboration that added depth to the creative process. Sheeran was not merely crafting a song; he was playing a role in a film that his children could eventually enjoy alongside their uncle.
The Music Video: Claudia Jessie’s Role
The music video for “Under The Tree” features actress Claudia Jessie, renowned for her performance in “Bridgerton.” In this video, Jessie embodies Sheeran’s romantic interest, effectively bringing the song’s emotional storyline to fruition. Her interpretation of a character enduring a painful separation resonates with the song’s themes of desire and heartache. Jessie’s involvement in the video is a strategic decision, as her acting skills enable her to express the intricacies of Sheeran’s lyrics through mere facial expressions and movements, enhancing the song’s contemplative atmosphere.
The video premiered on YouTube concurrently with the song’s release, providing fans with an immediate visual interpretation of Sheeran’s heartfelt message. The cinematic quality of the video amplifies the song’s emotional depth, featuring imagery of winter landscapes and intimate moments that underscore the feelings of sadness and longing present in the lyrics.
Lyrics Breakdown: A Heartfelt Plea for Reunion
“I’m Alone This December”
The introductory lines of Under The Tree effectively establish the song’s atmosphere. The phrase “I’m alone this December” conveys a feeling of isolation and emotional sensitivity that resonates with many, particularly during the holiday season. The narrator of the song evidently grapples with feelings of loneliness, pondering whether their beloved shares the same yearning.
“There Is Nothing Under The Tree That I Wished For”
The repeated phrase, “There is nothing under the tree that I wished for,” highlights the ineffectiveness of material presents when confronted with genuine emotional grievance.
This statement is vital to the song’s emotional impact, as it juxtaposes the usual thrill associated with Christmas gifts against a deeper yearning for emotional bonds. The holiday season, which is typically characterized by generosity, feels hollow when the most significant gift — the reunion with a departed loved one — cannot be realized.
“I Want You to Come Back to Me”
A primary motif in the song revolves around the speaker’s longing for the revival of a former relationship. The recurring phrase “I want you to come back to me” underscores a profound yearning for reconciliation and emotional restoration. This sentiment resonates with the wider experience of individuals who may seek to reestablish connections with cherished ones during the holiday season, often stemming from feelings of estrangement or loss.
“Have I Lost You?”
This line conveys the deep sorrow associated with uncertainty. The speaker is left to ponder whether the emotional bond they once had has genuinely come to a close. The distress of contemplating the permanent loss of a loved one introduces an additional dimension of heartbreak to the song, enhancing its relatability for those who have encountered a similar situation during the holiday season.
“Nothing Will Ever Fill the Hole”
The lyrics highlight that no external offering or individual can substitute for the emptiness created by a severed bond. The phrase “Nothing will ever fill the hole” conveys the notion that material goods are inadequate when juxtaposed with the emotional significance of having a person in one’s life.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of “Under The Tree”
In the creation of Under The Tree, Sheeran adopted a profoundly personal methodology. He noted that the emotional resonance of the song was significantly enhanced through his collaboration with his brother. Working with a family member on such a pivotal project added a deeper significance to the song, as the brothers were able to draw upon their shared experiences and values.
Sheeran’s remarks also express his dissatisfaction with the scarcity of animated Christmas films, especially those that explore more profound emotional themes. He referred to That Christmas as a unique treasure, which not only provided a platform for his song but also enabled him to contribute to a holiday film that could influence future generations. His enthusiasm regarding the film’s potential was palpable, as he aspires for it to become a cherished holiday tradition in homes, akin to other classic animated Christmas films.
Under The Tree: A Seasonal Staple in the Making
The song Under The Tree, characterized by its poignant lyrics and profound emotional resonance, is set to establish itself as a classic within the holiday music repertoire. It resonates with the feelings of vulnerability that many experience during the Christmas season, making it universally appealing. Additionally, its connection to the animated film That Christmas will solidify its role in holiday customs, providing a distinctive context that enhances its importance.
Expert Editorial Comment
Under the Tree by Ed Sheeran transcends the typical boundaries of a Christmas song; it encapsulates themes of emotional resilience, love, and the sorrow of separation. With its hauntingly beautiful melody, Sheeran has created a piece that resonates with those who struggle during the holiday season, providing solace for individuals grappling with profound loss.
The song’s poignant connection to “That Christmas” enhances its emotional depth, establishing it as a significant contribution to the holiday music repertoire. Whether one is celebrating Christmas in the company of family or reflecting on cherished memories, “Under The Tree” serves as a poignant reminder that the most valuable gifts are often intangible, unable to be wrapped or placed beneath the tree.
Under the Tree by Ed Sheeran: Lyrics, Music Video, and Meaning Behind the Christmas Anthem