Paul Kelly's Gravy: December 21st Trend

𝕵𝖊𝖙𝖎𝖒𝖔𝖇 𝕯𝖎𝖌𝖎𝖙𝖆𝖑 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Dec 21, 2024

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Paul Kelly's Gravy: Unpacking the December 21st Trend

Paul Kelly's "How to Make Gravy" isn't just a song; it's a cultural phenomenon, especially around December 21st. This seemingly innocuous track from his 1996 album, Songs from the South, has taken on a life of its own, becoming an unlikely internet meme and a surprisingly strong seasonal tradition for many. But why December 21st? And what's behind this peculiar online ritual? Let's delve into the gravy-soaked depths of this intriguing trend.

The Song Itself: A Simple Recipe, a Complex Meaning

At its core, "How to Make Gravy" is a straightforward, almost whimsical song about the seemingly mundane task of making gravy. Kelly's evocative lyrics paint a picture of familial gatherings, Christmas preparations, and the comforting ritual of cooking. The song's simplicity is part of its charm, offering a relatable experience for listeners, regardless of their cultural background or culinary expertise. It's a song about connection, tradition, and the warmth of shared meals.

However, the song's simplicity belies a deeper meaning. The act of making gravy, a process requiring careful attention and precise measurements, becomes a metaphor for life's complexities. The potential for mistakes—lumps, too much flour, a ruined sauce—mirrors the uncertainties and challenges we face in our own lives. This subtle layer of meaning adds depth and resonance, making the song more than just a festive ditty.

The December 21st Phenomenon: A Social Media Mystery

The association of "How to Make Gravy" with December 21st isn't explicitly mentioned in the song itself. There's no lyrical reference to the date, nor any inherent reason why it should be linked to this specific day. Yet, year after year, the internet erupts with mentions, memes, and enthusiastic celebrations of Paul Kelly's gravy around the winter solstice.

This trend appears to have organically evolved through social media. The exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, but the likely explanation is a confluence of factors:

• The Festive Season: December 21st falls within the Christmas season, a time associated with family gatherings, food, and shared experiences. The song's theme of family and culinary traditions resonates powerfully during this period.
• The Song's Relatability: As mentioned earlier, the song's simple yet meaningful message touches a universal chord. Many people can relate to the feeling of preparing a festive meal and the anxieties (and joys) that come with it.
• Internet Culture: Memes and viral trends often emerge organically, with no central orchestrator. The simplicity and catchiness of "How to Make Gravy" made it ripe for memeification, further strengthening its online presence.
• The Winter Solstice: Some suggest that the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, adds a layer of symbolic meaning to the trend. The act of creating something warm and comforting amidst the darkness might hold a particular appeal around this time.

The Power of Shared Experiences: Why it Resonates

The enduring appeal of Paul Kelly's Gravy on December 21st speaks to the power of shared online experiences. The annual ritual of listening to and discussing the song creates a sense of community amongst its fans. This shared experience transcends geographical boundaries, uniting people from different backgrounds through a common cultural touchstone.

It's a testament to the power of music to create connection and shared meaning. The seemingly mundane act of making gravy transforms into a cultural event, fueled by social media and collective participation.

How to Participate (and why you should):

While there's no prescribed ritual, joining the December 21st Paul Kelly's Gravy celebration is simple:

• Listen to the song: Find "How to Make Gravy" on your favorite music streaming service and give it a listen. Pay attention to the lyrics and the overall atmosphere of the song.
• Engage online: Join the conversation on social media platforms. Share your thoughts, memories, and experiences related to the song and the tradition. Use hashtags like #PaulKellysGravy and #HowToMakeGravy to connect with others.
• Make gravy (optional): Perhaps the most fitting way to participate is to actually make gravy! Follow (or don't follow!) Paul Kelly's lyrical instructions and share your culinary creations online.
• Share the love: Introduce the song and the tradition to your friends and family. Spread the joy of Paul Kelly's Gravy!

The Enduring Legacy of a Simple Song

The December 21st Paul Kelly's Gravy trend demonstrates the unpredictable power of internet culture and the enduring resonance of seemingly simple songs. It's a heartwarming testament to the power of shared experiences and the ability of music to transcend the everyday and create meaningful connections. It’s a unique cultural phenomenon, a delightful quirk in the internet's tapestry, and a reminder that even the most seemingly mundane things can become significant when shared with others.

So, mark your calendar for December 21st, put on Paul Kelly's "How to Make Gravy," and join the celebration. You might just discover a new annual tradition, and a deeper appreciation for the magic of a seemingly simple song. And maybe, just maybe, you'll even make some delicious gravy.