This song is available on Katherine Dine's Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta Holidays:
Songs and StoriesThat Celebrate Global Light
Ancient Chinese legends tell of a hungry monster named Nian
who came from the ocean every year to gobble up villagers. A stranger
finally banished Nian forever by using firecrackers, red lanterns and lots of
noise. Chinese New Year celebrates the end of Nian.
NIAN! Was a monster so strong,
Who came from the sea to eat everyone!
With long sharp teeth; and a horn on its head,
It’s powerful tail, filled everyone with dread.
CRASH
NIAN! Terrified of bright lights,
Despised red color and noises at night
So villagers hung red lanterns all around
And exploded fireworks with a deafening sound!
CRASH
NIAN! Ran away to escape,
And that’s what the Chinese celebrate.
They drove away NIAN back into the night
‘Til it disappeared forever--out of sight.
Chinese New Year-- is red, and loud and bright! NIAN!
CRASH
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Many thanks to Katherine Dinesfor permission to display these lyrics.
©2019 Kiddie Korral Music. All rights reserved. Used with permission.
