About The Song
For many of us, the magic of Christmas isn’t confined to grand gestures or extravagant gifts. It’s nestled in the quiet moments, the shared smiles, and the simple joys that fill our hearts with warmth. This sentiment finds a beautiful voice in ABBA’s “Little Things,” a heartwarming track from their surprise 2021 album, Voyage.
Released in the lead-up to the holiday season, the song serves as a gentle reminder that happiness often resides in the unassuming details. Gone are the pulsating rhythms and dramatic melodies that defined some of ABBA’s biggest hits. Instead, “Little Things” unfolds with a tender touch, a soothing melody that evokes the hushed anticipation of Christmas morning.
Imagine yourself nestled under a cozy blanket, the first rays of dawn painting the room with a soft glow. As the world outside slumbers, you awaken to the quiet excitement of a child at heart. This is the setting that “Little Things” paints with such vividness. The song’s narrator, likely a mother, reflects on the simple pleasures that make Christmas special. It’s the “gentle touch” of a loved one, the “sleepy smile” shared in the pre-dawn light, and the “children bursting with giggles and screams” as they tear into their presents.
The lyrics, penned by Björn Ulvaeus, weave a tapestry of domestic bliss. There’s a playful wink in the line about Santa bringing “stockings full of nice little things,” a sentiment many of us can readily relate to. The song also takes a nostalgic turn, referencing the “precious jewels on rings” and “a music box that will fit in socks,” evoking memories of simpler times and cherished childhood Christmases.
But “Little Things” transcends mere sentimentality. It underscores the profound joy that comes from sharing these precious moments with loved ones. The “happy noise” of children playing, the “lovely Christmas morning,” and the “little moments of happiness and of bliss” – these are the ingredients that make Christmas truly special.
While ABBA may be best known for their infectious pop anthems, “Little Things” showcases a different side of the group. It’s a testament to their enduring ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level, reminding us that the greatest treasures often lie in the unassuming details of life, especially during the heartwarming spirit of Christmas.