How Many La's in the Chorus of Deck the Halls: A Deep Dive into Festive Linguistics and Beyond

The holiday season brings with it a plethora of traditions, songs, and questions that often go unexplored. One such question that has puzzled many is: How many la’s are in the chorus of “Deck the Halls”? While this might seem like a trivial inquiry, it opens the door to a fascinating exploration of linguistics, music theory, and even cultural history. Let’s dive into this seemingly simple question and uncover the layers of meaning and discussion it can inspire.

The Anatomy of “Deck the Halls”

“Deck the Halls” is a classic Christmas carol that dates back to the 16th century, with its melody originating from a Welsh winter song called Nos Galan. The chorus, famously filled with “fa la la” refrains, is a hallmark of the song. But how many “la’s” are there exactly?

In the traditional version, the chorus goes:
“Fa la la la la, la la la la.”
Counting the “la’s,” we find a total of eight. However, variations exist depending on the arrangement or performance. Some versions might stretch the “la’s” for musical effect, while others might shorten them. This raises the question: Does the number of “la’s” matter, or is it the spirit of the song that counts?

The Role of Nonsense Syllables in Music

The use of “fa la la” in “Deck the Halls” is an example of nonsense syllables in music. These syllables, while devoid of literal meaning, serve a crucial purpose: they create rhythm, enhance melody, and make songs more memorable. In many cultures, such syllables are used in folk music to evoke joy, celebration, or even storytelling.

For instance, in Irish folk music, “too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral” serves a similar purpose. The repetition of sounds like “la” or “loo” creates a sense of unity and participation, encouraging listeners to join in. This brings us to an interesting tangent: Could the number of “la’s” in “Deck the Halls” influence how easily people can sing along? Perhaps fewer “la’s” would make the song more accessible, while more might add complexity and flair.

A Linguistic Perspective: The Power of Repetition

From a linguistic standpoint, the repetition of “la” in “Deck the Halls” is a form of reduplication, a phenomenon where a word or syllable is repeated to convey emphasis, rhythm, or playfulness. Reduplication is common in many languages, from Hawaiian (wikiwiki meaning “quickly”) to Mandarin (māma meaning “mom”).

In the context of “Deck the Halls,” the “la’s” serve as a rhythmic anchor, tying the chorus together and making it instantly recognizable. This raises another question: Could the song have achieved the same level of popularity with a different set of syllables? For example, what if the chorus used “do re mi” instead of “fa la la”? Would it still feel as festive?

Cultural Significance: The Universality of “La”

The syllable “la” holds a unique place in global culture. In solfège, a system used to teach music, “la” represents the sixth note of the scale. In many languages, “la” is also a definite article (e.g., French la maison meaning “the house”). This dual role—musical and linguistic—makes “la” a versatile and universal sound.

In “Deck the Halls,” the use of “la” transcends language barriers, making the song accessible to people worldwide. This universality is a key factor in its enduring popularity. But could the song’s global appeal be tied to the specific number of “la’s”? For instance, would a chorus with ten “la’s” feel too repetitive, or would it enhance the song’s festive energy?

A Philosophical Tangent: The Meaning of “La”

While “la” is often considered a nonsense syllable, it can also be seen as a symbol of joy, freedom, and expression. In many ways, the “la’s” in “Deck the Halls” represent the unbridled happiness of the holiday season. They remind us that sometimes, words are unnecessary—what matters is the feeling behind them.

This leads us to a broader discussion: In a world increasingly focused on meaning and purpose, is there value in embracing the nonsensical? Could the “la’s” in “Deck the Halls” serve as a reminder to find joy in the simple, the repetitive, and the seemingly trivial?

Conclusion: The Enduring Mystery of the “La’s”

So, how many “la’s” are in the chorus of “Deck the Halls”? The answer is eight—but as we’ve seen, this question is just the beginning of a much larger conversation. From the role of nonsense syllables in music to the cultural significance of “la,” this festive inquiry invites us to explore the intersections of language, music, and tradition.

As you sing along to “Deck the Halls” this holiday season, take a moment to appreciate the “la’s.” Whether there are eight, ten, or even twelve, they are a testament to the power of music to bring people together, transcend language barriers, and spread joy.