A Ray of Hope in the Winter: Merle Haggard’s If We Make It Through December
Merle Haggard’s “If We Make It Through December” is more than just a holiday song. It’s a poignant narrative that blends the spirit of Christmas with a universal reflection on the human struggle, embodying Haggard’s masterful ability to turn personal hardship into timeless music. Released in October 1973 as the lead single from Merle Haggard’s Christmas Present, it would later be featured as the title track of a non-Christmas album just a few months after. Though rooted in the festive season, the song resonates with anyone who’s ever faced difficult times, offering a glimmer of hope in the bleakest moments.
Haggard’s delivery of the song is both intimate and raw, with a voice that aches with every word. The lyrics tell the story of someone struggling through a harsh winter, fighting the weight of unemployment and loneliness. The song’s protagonist faces the bleak reality of financial insecurity, but despite the overwhelming circumstances, there is a quiet determination in his voice—a desire to survive and push through the tough times for the sake of something better. The line “If we make it through December, everything’s gonna be alright, I know” becomes a mantra, a hope that maybe, just maybe, the New Year will bring a new beginning.
Musically, the song has a simplicity that perfectly complements its heartfelt lyrics. The understated arrangement, with its gentle guitar and subdued rhythm, lets the emotional weight of the story take center stage. It’s a perfect example of how Haggard’s music, often rooted in the struggles of everyday life, has the power to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
While “If We Make It Through December” was initially released as part of a Christmas album, it’s much more than a seasonal tune. It’s a song about resilience, about overcoming obstacles, and about the simple hope that tomorrow might be brighter than today. The seasonal references to Christmas bring warmth and familiarity, but it’s the deeper themes of survival, love, and perseverance that elevate the song beyond the holidays.
Over the years, “If We Make It Through December” has become one of Haggard’s signature songs, cementing its place in the hearts of fans and in the canon of country music classics. It serves as both a reflection of a difficult time in the singer’s life—Haggard himself had struggled with the loss of his job and the challenges of providing for his family—and a beacon for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by life’s hardships. Through the cold of December, Haggard’s voice offers warmth, reminding us all that sometimes, simply making it through the tough times is an achievement worth celebrating.