To Australians, December 21 is more than a countdown to Christmas, it’s ‘Gravy Day,’ thanks to a line from Paul Kelly’s unlikely Christmas song ‘How to Make Gravy.’
Every December 21, Australians celebrate ‘Gravy Day’ in a nod to Paul Kelly’s song ‘How to Make Gravy.’ The song, now a beloved holiday staple, captures the heartache and longing of being away from loved ones during Christmas.
Kelly’s song tells the story of Joe, a prisoner writing to his family as they prepare for Christmas without him. In a letter, Joe shares his recipe for gravy, blending humor with a sense of regret and yearning. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of family gatherings, missed moments, and the universal wish to be somewhere else during the holidays.
Written in 1996, the song was initially meant for a charity album. Kelly’s inspiration came from classic holiday albums, pairing a simple melody with heartfelt lyrics. Despite its lack of a traditional chorus, ‘How to Make Gravy’ struck a chord with audiences, becoming a requested song at Kelly’s concerts throughout the year, not just during the holidays.
‘How to Make Gravy’ is filled with rich storytelling. Joe imagines the Christmas he’d miss, from the taste of his gravy to the family dynamics, like asking to ‘kiss the kids’ and sending love to family members. He muses on his brother taking care of his wife, Rita, and reflects on past relationships, adding a personal touch with anecdotes like comparing past partners to unfamiliar characters, noting, ‘he never did get Nina Simone.’
The song’s Australian summer setting is evident in references like ‘I hear it’s going to be 100 degrees,’ anchoring the story in a warm, unique holiday experience. This seasonal contrast, coupled with Kelly’s family-centric lyrics, has made the song resonate deeply in a culture where Christmas is spent outdoors.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese mentioned ‘Gravy Day’ when discussing the release of five prisoners, highlighting how deeply the song is ingrained in Australian culture. The tradition of ‘Gravy Day’ also made its way into film, with Nick Waterman adapting the story into a movie available on Australian streaming services.
For many, ‘How to Make Gravy’ is more than just a song; it’s a reminder of familial bonds and the warmth of holiday gatherings. Even Paul Kelly, in interviews, expresses surprise at the song’s popularity, acknowledging how it taps into shared emotions surrounding Christmas and family.
‘How to Make Gravy’ may be an unconventional Christmas song, but it captures the spirit of the season for many Australians, symbolizing love, longing, and the joy of togetherness.
Source: Apnews
