by Marguerite-Joan Joseph

Twas the night before Christmas and all over the place

Joy was replacing care in each face

A pot full of sorrel — a big part of the plan

The ham that was chosen still steamed in the pan.

The smell of black cake still hung on the oven

They all knew: Here’s the best on this side of heaven!

A rack of fresh bread beguiled every sense,

In spite of the scarce pound, shilling and pence

The house was the best it could ever appear

With garlands of flowers on the rickety stair.

The children played quietly on the warm, brown wood floor

All expectant if anyone came to the door

The neighbours would drop by, all one by one,

With gifts, cards or bottles, and share in the fun.

Soon they were sent to bed with a flourish,

Because of the Midnight Mass of the Parish.

They had dreams of Saint Nicholas flying the sky

And Rudolf the reindeer ever so shy.

“With Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen,

On Comet and Cupid and Dona and Blitzen.”

They awoke by eleven to get themselves ready

To go on to church with the rest of the city

They would hear the sweet carols and sing out their faith,

And welcome the Christ Child and visit the crèche.

Then they shared in the joy of the people they loved,

As they came from the church knowing God is above.

With the ringing of church bells sweet on their ears

They would go on back home, and again climb the stairs

There they hoped to recapture the dream and the joy

Of Saint Nicholas riding for each girl and boy

Who all year before had been good, good as gold;

Hoping to win as the story had told.

As they sank to their pillows, they were sure they could hear

A voice say, over hoof-beats, or creaking of stair;

Oh yes, they were sure, as they shut their lids tight

“Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!”

The Night before Christmas, Caribbean Creole version by Dr Marguerite Joan Joseph of the Grenada Creole Society was submitted by Jeanne Joseph-Ortega.

NOW Grenada is not responsible for the opinions, statements or media content presented by contributors. In case of abuse, click here to report.