Piece Comment

YEB review of "Believing in Santa Claus"


For many children, Santa Claus is a staple in their childhood, right next to naps and cheesy Goldfish crackers. The realization that this imaginary jolly character, is well, imaginary, is always a bit difficult. Asha Richardson tackled this topic in the most endearing and heartfelt way. As one would expect, little evidence is needed to back up the believe of Old Saint Nick for younger children. After all, "No one can be coming by and just giving me presents," therefore it is reason enough for this man to exist. The piece transitions to older kids, as the rationalize their way past the old tale and recount the effects disproving Santa Claus caused. Richardson does a good job working the audio clips into piece. Richardson is obviously a very good reporter. I feel like the intro could do with clips of Christmas carols, or even ripping of gift wrap to connect the listener to the Christmas theme. And maybe an analysis of this rationalization in the narration. The piece drops off towards the end and doesn't quite wrap up the idea of believing in Santa Claus. Living in the heart of the city, with a fire escape instead of a chimney, I never believed in Santa Claus or any of the folklore that went with him. It was interesting for me to hear all these different theories, but I needed more. Just like Joshua Raifman felt, there was a piece of a puzzle missing.