Christmas; Santa Reading Mail 1935

Norman Rockwell’s ‘Christmas; Santa Reading Mail,’ offers a glimpse into the mythology of Christmas through a painterly style that defined much of 20th-century American illustration. Rockwell's sentimental and idealized scenes reflect the cultural values of his time, but also the socioeconomic dynamics of the era. Here, Santa is portrayed as a figure deeply entrenched in a laborious administrative task. The image suggests themes of accountability and the weight of expectation, as Santa, a symbol of generosity, carefully reviews the Christmas letters. The halo around his head creates an interesting parallel between the commercial and the sacred. Consider the emotional labour involved in this ritual—the hope and vulnerability embedded in each letter, contrasted with Santa’s expression of pensive concentration. Rockwell's nostalgic vision invites reflection on our own participation in these cultural rituals, and the impact of these traditions on our collective identity.